That the university is submitting a Memorandum of Understanding to SUNY ("Planning the future of UB 2020," Jan. 26) regarding the status of the UB 2020 plan represents real progress on a proposal that has long been in the developmental stage. There is little doubt that the ambitious project is necessary not only for the long-term viability of the university itself, but for the Buffalo region as well. Sean Sullivan readily admits that the ambitious goals of increasing enrollment and faculty size will almost certainly demand new capacity to accommodate this growth. However, it is important to recognize that most university facilities cannot sustain even current demand.
A common complaint from instructors is the lack of adequate classroom space, and it is common knowledge that the campus housing situation needs immediate attention to meet current, much less future needs. The state of campus promenade should be an embarrassment to the school, though plans have long existed for its replacement. Furthermore, many of the buildings on both campuses are in serious need of updates, most notably the Capen libraries. Other SUNY campuses such as Binghamton have addressed many similar issues. Though UB 2020 proposes to rectify the situation, it is important to keep in mind that there has been no shortage of proposals for facility upgrades in the past, such as the perpetually delayed recreation center and now-forgotten Lee Road project. In planning for growth, the university should be cognizant of the needs faced today and not merely those of the future.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
