ASU's master plan includes historic resources preservation

Augusta State has a long history, in both its academic tradition that dates back to the 1783 chartering of its parent institution, the Academy of Richmond County, and its physical location that was once a federal arsenal dating back to 1826. To preserve and promote ASU’s unique history, a master plan is being developed by the university and the University System of Georgia.

Last year ASU applied for a grant that would enable the university to develop a plan to preserve its historic buildings, and although that effort was not successful, the University System itself was successful in obtaining the grant. ASU was selected as the second institution to develop a master plan, based in part on the research that had already been conducted for the initial grant application. The Board of Regents provided funding for the $50,000 plan.

Led by Special Coordinator for Master Planning Kathy Hamrick, a campus committee was formed history to work with the firm of Lord, Aeck & Sargent, 2KM Architects, and the Jaeger Company. Erik Montgomery of Historic Augusta was also brought on board.

A preliminary report has been drafted by Lord, Aeck & Sargent that includes a historic narrative as well as chronology of the site’s physical development. It also includes an archaeology report, identification and evaluation of cultural resources, landscape condition survey, historic architecture condition survey, along with recommendation for treatment and use.

Although the report is not final, among its overall campus preservation philosophy are the following five points:

1. Recognize ASU’s historic resources-including buildings, landscapes, and archaeological sites as valuable assets contributing to future campus development.

2. Continue to assess the significance of historic resources through appropriate identification and research activities.

3. Conserve historic resources through campus planning which results in appropriate management and preservation treatment.

4. Ensure that the design of new construction is of enduring quality, capable of adaptation, and that is sensitive to existing buildings and spaces.

5. Promote broad understanding, awareness, enjoyment, and continued use of ASU’s historic building, landscapes, and sites.

The plan assigns preservation ranking to each of the identified historic buildings and landscapes for campus planning purposes by assigning them to categories: Preservation Category I – Long Term Preservation – those that are worthy of long term preservation and investment because they meet one or more of the following criteria: possess central importance in defining the historical, architectural or cultural value of ASU; possess outstanding architectural, engineering, artistic characteristics; represent a major investment of resources, such as materials or energy that should not be wasted, and or possess considerable potential for continuing or adaptive use.

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