MIDDLE STATES ACCREDITATION SELF-STUDY
REPORT OF SUBCOMMITTEE ON FACILITIES
STATEMENT OF CHARGE
The basic charge of the Subcommittee on Facilities was to assess the University’s plans for the
development and growth of facilities. The subcommittee paid close attention to short- and long-term
priorities of the Master Plan and assessed the maintenance plan for managing the physical plant,
equipment, and materials.
METHODOLOGY
In September 2000, the Subcommittee divided responsibilities for the various components of its
charge among the members. The Subcommittee concentrated on the following areas:
Classroom and Office Environment (classrooms faculty/staff offices);
Out-of-Class Environment (residence halls, student lounges, Food Service);
Auxiliary Activities (sports and intramurals, parking, bookstore, mail service);
Buildings and Grounds (Physical Plant, Maintenance, Grounds, Public Safety); and
Facilities for Business and Community Interests (Center for Leadership).
Subcommittee members gathered information from the University’s Master Plan, Annual
Reports, Surveys and other pertinent documents that were current at the time and available in the
Outcomes Assessment Inventory Library. The Subcommittee interviewed Administrators, Academic
Deans, Academic Department Heads, and Managers about the state of facilities in their respective areas.
We also designed a Facilities Survey (Appendix A), which was distributed to 673 faculty, staff, and
students to obtain their feelings about the current status of the University’s facilities. Two hundred
responses were received. Tabulated and entered into an Excel file, the data was made available to
committee members to analyze and cite as needed.
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SUMMARY
This report describes the current conditions of the University’s facilities. It outlines the effect of
the Master Plan and current initiatives underway to upgrade and improve the University’s physical
facilities in the near future. It also demonstrates how the Master Plan, which provides the major
background for this report, supports the mission and goals of the University. The fiscal planning of the
21st Century Fund Campaign and increased grant procurements have provided a means to carry out the
projects in the Master Plan. Further grant applications and fund-raising campaigns are being planned to
provide additional funding for new projects. While an institution’s facilities do not in themselves
determine the completeness of the institution, they are central to its quality by helping it to achieve the
academic mission. During the last ten years the University has renovated and expanded its facilities as
proposed in the Master Plan. Primary areas needing attention identified in the Master Plan included
providing for new and improved student life facilities, improving the quality and technological
suitability of classrooms, increasing space to support the University’s growth, and providing a
pedestrian-friendly environment. The initiatives represented in the Master Plan clearly support the
University’s mission and goals. At the same time, these programs and projects address and meet the
criteria discussed in Designs for Excellence (p. 31). As new degree programs such as Elementary
Education, Visual Communications, and Engineering expand the University’s educational
opportunities, new and improved state-of-the-art facilities such as the Student Center and the
Presentation Classrooms located there, the Engineering Laboratory, the Visual Communications
Classrooms, and the advanced technologies in these facilities enable the University to compete for and
retain the most qualified faculty and students. In turn, better faculty and students will enhance the
University’s ability to improve already distinguished educational degree programs and help attract
greater grant support to the University. The positive impact of the Master Plan on students, faculty, and
staff as a whole facilitates the University’s ability to increase and stabilize enrollment.
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DESCRIPTION OF RMC FACILITIES AND EQUIPMENT
Facilities Description
Robert Morris University consists of two campuses, the Moon Campus and the Pittsburgh Center.
The Moon Campus is the main campus of the University. It is located on 230 acres and comprises 24
buildings which house faculty and staff offices, classrooms, food services, 10 residence halls with
accommodations for 1008 students, administrative offices, and Student Center /Athletic facilities. The
Pittsburgh Center is located approximately 20 miles southeast of the Moon Campus and consists of two
buildings: 600 Fifth Avenue and 718 Fifth Avenue. Both buildings provide space for administrative
offices, classrooms, and faculty and staff offices and food services/student lounges. (Appendix B)
All University grounds are operated and maintained by the physical plant office. This department, which
reports to the Executive Director of Facilities & Public Safety is responsible for the maintenance,
operating, and cleaning of the University’s academic, administrative and athletic facilities and buildings;
residence halls, grounds, and extensive utility infrastructure. It is also responsible for utilities
management, capital construction and major maintenance projects at both campuses.
Equipment Description
The University’s Comptroller’s Office maintains a computerized inventory of all university
equipment. The computerized inventory system will reflect equipment at or above the cost criteria
purchase amount of $250.
MASTER PLAN PLANNING PROCESS
In the fall of 1993, Celli-Flynn and Associates, Architects and Planners, was retained by the
University to prepare a Master Plan for the campus. The goal was to set the site improvements, space and
physical facilities programs in place to allow the University to continue its growth, improve all aspects of
its campus, and position the University for continued excellence in 2000 and beyond.
As part of that improvement effort, the architectural and planning team proceeded with audits of
the existing buildings in order to understand their condition and function, audits of the existing site work
in order to understand the condition of the exterior features and the exterior spaces on the site, and the
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preparation of a Space Requirement Plan to set forth the square footage needs of the University in 2003.
Interviews were conducted with each division head at the University and a list of requirements
determined. From these functional requirements an estimate of required spaces and sizes were developed
and included in the deliberations that resulted in the Space Requirement Plan
The Master Plan contains the results of that work effort and includes a brief written audit of each
of the buildings. The audits are general in nature and are intended to point out the condition of the
buildings, their architectural, mechanical and electrical features, and their suitability for accepting
renovations for continued university use.
The audit of the site was intended to examine the condition of ramps, stairs, roads, landscape
features, and other elements of the exterior architecture to identify those items needing immediate
attention and to establish what spaces are available for outdoor enjoyment and usage.
The projected space plan for the University was set up to determine the square footage needs 10
years hence and then compared that need with the current square footage available in the existing
buildings. Existing architecture and square footage may make it difficult to create specialized spaces
necessary to support new programs. The purpose of the Space Plan such specialized square footage needs
and accommodate them in various buildings.
CURRENT CAMPUS CONCERNS
Rapidly developing research and technological needs of the last decade have put severe
demands on the University’s facilities. Generally, the concerns are expressed in the Master Plan
Goals (Master Plan, p. 2). They include providing for new and improved student life facilities,
improving the quality and technological suitability of the classrooms, increasing space to support
the University’s future growth, and providing a pedestrian-friendly environment.
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CLASSROOM AND OFFICE ENVIRONMENT
Classrooms
Discussion
At the Moon campus, 35 classrooms in 5 buildings hold between 22 to 100 students. At the
Pittsburgh Center, 36 classrooms in 2 buildings hold between 30 to 71 students. The Moon campus has
five open-access computer laboratories. The smallest is 900-square feet with 29 PCs. Four labs are 1200square feet or more, each with 30 or 31 PCs. All machines are Pentium class with at least 450mhz and
two labs are equipped with 733mhz machines: all machines have either CD-ROM or DVD drives. All
labs have laser printers, two rooms are equipped with document cameras, and three labs have VCRs.
The Moon Campus also houses a 750-square foot computer lab dedicated to the Engineering Program.
This lab contains twenty-one 733mhz Pentium PCs with CD-ROM and ZIP drives. The room is equipped
with a laser printer, VCR, document camera, and ceiling mounted projector.
The Pittsburgh Center has four open-access labs, each with at least 1200-square feet of space. One lab is
equipped with twenty-five 333mhz Pentiums, two with thirty-one 450mhz Pentiums, and one with thirtyone 733mhz Pentiums.
All machines have either CD-ROM or DVD drives, each room has a laser printer, three labs have
VCRs and document cameras. The Pittsburgh Center also has a Visual Communications Lab equipped
with 23 Apple PowerMac G4s contained in 900-square feet.
In addition to these laboratory facilities, the Moon Campus has equipped 17 classrooms as
“smart” or technologically high-end rooms. These rooms each contain white boards, a ceiling mounted
projector, a document camera, a VCR, and a smart cart with a 733mhz Pentium PC with DVD drive. The
Moon campus also has outfitted one classroom as a “POD” room containing twenty-eight 733mhz
Pentiums with DVD drive. The Pittsburgh Center is outfitted with 11 “smart” rooms with white boards,
ceiling mounted projector, document camera, VCR and smart cart similar to the Moon Campus.
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Renovations to Hale Center and the Pittsburgh Center computer labs have occurred with funding
provided by the Technology Plan. Wiring upgrades have taken place and one third of the computers in
the labs have been replaced (15 Dell computers – Pittsburgh Center: 30 Dell computers – Moon
Campus).
For a complete list of all computer lab equipment, see Appendix E.
Major renovations to the University’s building at 718 Fifth Avenue in downtown Pittsburgh have
been completed, providing space for the Bayer Center for Non-Profit Management and the new Visual
Communications program. The building features computer labs, classrooms, offices and a 1st floor
gallery area where works by students and visiting artists can be displayed.
Much progress has been made in addressing classroom facilities at the University. The
technological enhancements, new construction and remodeling proposed in the Master Plan (Master Plan
pg 48-53) and the Technology Plan assures the University’s ability to attract and retain quality students
and faculty and increased Grant Funding opportunities.
After analyzing information gathered through interviews and surveys, it was determined that
current classroom facilities are meeting the University’s goals and mission.
Recommendations: Moon Campus
The University should carry out projects proposed in the Master Plan and Technology Plan.
Recommendations: Pittsburgh Center
Follow through with the proposed four new Presentation Classrooms. Look into renovating the 6th
Floor Lecture Hall to make it similar to the facilities in Hopwood Hall.
Faculty Office Environment
Discussion
The Moon campus and Pittsburgh Center house approximately 117 full-time and 183 part-time faculty
members. Moon campus full-time faculty offices are located in Massey Hall opened in 1992, the Student
Center opened in 1999 and the John Jay Engineering Lab, renovated and opened in 2000. Massey Hall
houses 46 faculty, department heads and deans, and their respective staff. The Student Center houses 32
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faculty, department heads and deans and their respective staff. John Jay Engineering Lab houses nine
faculty and the Learning Factory Lab. All areas contain offices and meeting rooms. Full-time faculty
have private offices. Part-time faculty members are located in Hale Center. The Pittsburgh Center fulland part-time faculty offices are located in the 600 5th Avenue and 718 5th Avenue buildings. At the
Pittsburgh Center most full-time faculty share their office space with one other person and department
heads have private offices.
With the addition of Massey Hall, the Student Center, and John Jay Engineering Lab the
University has addressed many of the faculty concerns about more and better equipped offices, space to
meet with students, and access to offices. All full-time faculty offices are equipped for current
technologies.
After analyzing information gathered through interviews and surveys, faculty office space is
meeting present needs. As the University grows and degree programs are changed or added, additional
faculty will need to be hired and the demands for faculty office space will increase.
Recommendations: Moon Campus
The University must continue to monitor available faculty office space. As new degree programs
are added, additional faculty will be hired. With no additional office space planned for in the short-term,
it may become a problem in the future.
Recommendations: Pittsburgh Center
Provide new office furniture and equipment to replace old or outdated equipment in full-time
faculty offices.
Staff Office Environment
Discussion
The Moon campus and Pittsburgh Center house approximately 302 and 28 full- and part-time
staff, respectively. Staff offices are located in various buildings throughout the Moon Campus and in
both Pittsburgh Center buildings. The addition of the Student Center and Massey Hall offer staff
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attractive, well furnished offices. Addressing office needs in existing buildings is an ongoing process.
The University continues to accommodate staff office needs when financially feasible.
Recommendation: Moon Campus
Continue to replace or upgrade office furniture and equipment to support the University’s
continued growth.
Recommendation: Pittsburgh Center
Continue to replace or upgrade office furniture and equipment to support the University’s
continued growth.
Administrative Computing
Discussion
Physical Facilities
The Director has stated that the current facilities are excellent. The office space is well used as
partitioned workspaces and private offices. The environment housing 50+ servers running production
systems is a combination lock secured area, raised floor, climate-controlled room. A training room for
Administrative Computing is fully equipped with a white board, six networked PCs, and a wide screen
TV monitor controlled by a wireless keyboard and mouse. This facility is used for the training of
administrative users on various systems. Additionally under development is one room in Hale Center that
will be used to house a help desk that will service students, faculty, and administrative computer users.
Software Facilities
Production systems are comprised of in-house written software as well as purchased packages.
These include but are not limited to a purchased package for Admissions (EMAS); an in-house written
Oracle-based client-server package for the University Student Information System. This contains
applications from admission through registration, student accounting and all facets of academic
administration. Additional systems include a purchased Alumni system (BlackBod); a purchased package
running the University’s financial systems (OracleFinancials); a financial aid system provided by the
Department of Education (EDExpress); a software package for Human Resources (CERIDIAN).
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In addition, an entire web-based in-house written Student Service system is continually
expanding offering more self-service applications to students. This is considered an extension of the
student information system used by administration.
Analysis
A formal Technology Plan (Appendix C) was adopted in 1999. Although mostly academic in
nature, it also addresses administrative hardware needs. The Help Desk budget has also been addressed
within the plan. The Help Desk serves the technical support needs of students, faculty, and staff. The
goal is to provide a single point-of-contact that can resolve technology related issues in a timely manner.
Another aspect addressed in the plan was Y2K compliance. A plan of action that included updating or
replacing older systems and applications, enabled the University to enter the millennium with no
disruptions to computer systems.
Recommendations
As staff continues to grow to meet the expanding technological needs of the university
community, office space may need to increase. Additionally, several new servers will need to be
purchased in the next two years to meet the robust requirements of the university software.
Reference: Lisa Bazeley, Director Administrative Information Systems
OUT-OF-CLASS ENVIRONMENT
Residence Halls
Discussion
The Moon Township campus of Robert Morris University has eight traditional residence halls;
Adams, Gallatin, Hamilton, Hancock, Madison, Marshall, Monroe and Ross (Master Plan pp. 28-44).
These halls were constructed during the years 1963 through 1969, have a similar size and design, and
house from 67 to 90 students. The majority of rooms are designed to house two students. There are 15
three-person rooms and 12 four-person rooms. In addition, every room has a cable TV outlet and smoke
detector and each student has their own Internet line and telephone line. A ninth residence hall is
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Washington Hall. It is commonly known as “The Suites” and was built in 1972 (Master Plan pp. 26-27).
This building is the largest residence hall building and is designed for 342 students. The building is
configured in a “tower” and “suite” arrangement. It has thirty-three suites, which contain five double
rooms, and two suites, which contain three double rooms. Each room has a smoke detector and access to
a cable TV outlet. Students have their own telephone line and Internet line.
One of the more significant improvements to the existing residence halls resulted from the
Freshmen Forum discussions with President Nicholson. (Outcomes Assessment Inventory Library). In
the spring of 2001 the University hired Ferry Electric to upgrade the University residence halls by adding
an Internet line and a new phone line for each student.
During the Fall 2001 Term, 1008 students resided in the dorms and 47 students had private
rooms. This is near the capacity of the 941 available beds. Private rooms are provided on a space
availability basis.
Student Apartments
The newest residence hall opened in fall 2001 and houses 124 upper-class students in 32
apartments and has an apartment for a member of the Residence Life staff (Facilities Overview). Each
apartment is designed for four students. Each apartment has four private bedrooms, two bathrooms, one
living room, and a fully equipped kitchen. Each room has an Internet line, telephone line, and smoke
detector. The living room area has seating for four people along with a cable TV outlet.
Students were invited to a general information session on the new apartment complex. They were
given information as to how they could be the first group to live in the new building. Thirty-nine groups
applied to live in the 31 areas.
Although no time frame has been set, Phase II of the Student Housing Plan proposed in the
Master Plan also provides for the construction of three additional apartment-style residence hall facilities.
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Analysis
Each year the Housing / Residence Life Office conducts a student survey at the end of the fall
semester in order to assess student views, attitudes, and wants with respect to the services and facilities
which are provided (Outcomes Assessment Inventory).
The following is a sample of the student responses from the fall 1999 survey.
When asked about programs in the residence halls (questions 20 – 27), the students replied that
55.1% of the residents regularly attended programs, and 68.9% of the residents felt that there were
enough social programs offered by the residence life staff.
When the resident students were asked about the Resident Assistant Staff and the Area
Coordinator Staff, they replied (questions 19 – 30) that 90.2% felt that the Resident Assistant was
available and willing to provide assistance when needed and was concerned about the resident.
When asked if they felt safe in the residence halls (questions 43 – 48), 89.4% responded that they
felt safe in their rooms.
When asked about the residence hall facilities, 80.6% of the students felt that the Housekeeping
team kept the facilities clean and had a good attitude (92.5%) toward the students.
Recommendations
The furniture was replaced in 1991 but needs to be replaced again. A regular replacement
schedule needs to be established.
Item “E” of the 1991 Middle States Review suggested a preventive maintenance program so that
our residence halls are kept in the best possible condition. The maintenance schedule has improved
greatly over the last ten years, but continues to need improvement. The Residence Life staff through
yearly inspections determines maintenance needs.
The wooden desk chairs that were purchased seven to nine years ago need to be replaced. The
Department of Residence Life has requested 200 replacement chairs for the 2001 – 2002 school year.
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The furniture for the suite living rooms needs to be replaced. It is nine years old and is very well
worn. New cushions were purchased in 1999 for six of the 35 suites. A five-year replacement calendar
needs to be put in place.
The desks and dressers in Washington Hall are the original furniture dating from when the
building was built in 1973. They also need to be replaced.
Student Lounges
Discussion
For the most part the student lounges are clean, well maintained, and available to all students.
The following is an analysis of all the student lounges in the University. All of the eight traditional
residence halls have one upper or main lounge and one lower lounge. Wall to wall carpeting is
considered adequate to good, and the 19” color televisions provided by the University are in good
condition. The furniture is nine years old and needs to be replaced; and there are few, if any, decorations.
These lounges are used mostly for meetings, aerobics, and hall social functions.
Washington Hall does not have a main lounge like the traditional halls, but each of the 35 suites
has a living room, which serves as a lounge for the residents.
In summer 1997, Hale Center, a classroom building, was redesigned and two lounges were
created, one on the second floor and one on the third floor. The lounge was designed with small tables
and chairs with a private vending area. The area is used and appreciated for small group meetings.
The Student Center, which is the newest building on the Moon Township Campus, has 12
lounges; two on the first floor, two on the second level, five on the third floor and four on the fourth floor.
The furniture is very nice and students can truly enjoy the areas as a lounge.
In the Pittsburgh Center Lower Level are three open lounge areas, which were previously used by
food service. The first area is outside of the bookstore, the second is the actual lounge, and the third is a
loft type lounge. The furniture is old and needs to be replaced. The maintenance staff at the Pittsburgh
Center rates the current furniture as poor.
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Recommendations: Moon Campus
Provide the resident students with new lounge furniture and new ping-pong tables in each of the
eight traditional buildings, especially Washington Hall.
Provide the residents of Washington Hall an area that they can use for programming and
activities.
Recommendations: Pittsburgh Center
Provide new furniture for the lounge area of the Pittsburgh Center.
Food Service
Discussion
In 1997, Parkhurst Dining Services became the new food service provider for the University. The
students are pleased with the addition of the new Student Center and with the quality of the food in the
Food Court. There are two locations at Moon (Market Place, Food Court) and one in Pittsburgh (Barista
Café) where students can purchase food. The Food Court offers seven different food stations ranging
from pizza and pasta to a deli/grill to traditional or exhibition-style meals and desserts. The Market Place
is a combination convenience store/gourmet coffee house. The Barista Café opened in February 1988 in
the Pittsburgh Center and provides pizza, sandwiches, and gourmet coffee.
Recommendations
In the Facilities Committee Survey (Appendix A), the students were concerned about the
following areas:
The respondents to the survey are suggesting that all three areas where food is sold have their
hours of operation open earlier and close later. This request is for all seven days of the week.
The survey brought to our attention the price being charged to the purchaser. One of the
examples was a can of Pringles priced at $2.59. The students feel that the prices should be brought into
line with the local stores. (respondent #42, question # 20b)
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FACILITIES FOR AUXILIARY ACTIVITIES
Student Organizations
The University supports 43 student organizations at the Moon campus and 9 at the Pittsburgh
Center. At the Moon campus only R-Move (Franklin Center) and RHA (Washington Hall) have formal
offices. There are offices above the John Jay Center for various groups but that space is mainly used for
storage. The University provides meeting space and other facilities for student organizations as needed.
Mail Services
Mail Services is located in the John Jay Center. They were moved from Jefferson Center to better
use road access and the loading dock for mail and UPS trucks. Present facilities meet current needs of
Mail Services.
Book Store
There are two book stores for the University; one in the Student Center and one in the Pittsburgh Center.
Both are operated by Barnes and Noble. With the opening of the Student Center, the Moon Campus book
store functions have moved into a larger, state-of-the-art facility with expanded apparel selection, as well
as a larger trade book selection. A packaging and shipping center and a Gateway computer kiosk are
included.
The Pittsburgh book store moved to a renovated area in the lower level of the Pittsburgh
Center. It provides more space for displays and stock than the previous location on the first floor.
Transportation and Parking
Access of vehicular traffic
Many improvements to the roadways have been proposed and implemented. Most notable was
the redesign of the existing road to accommodate the Student Center. The final goal is to eventually
extend roads around campus to eliminate vehicle access through the center of campus.
Parking Facilities
When the Master Plan was designed, the University had over 1,300 parking spaces in 13 lots on
campus. Estimates were given that 1,200 additional spaces will be needed as enrollment and
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Convocation Center business increases. A new parking lot with an additional 200 spaces was constructed
for the Fall 2001 Term.
Parking Regulations
Presently, the University charges for parking. The funds generated from parking fees offset the
maintenance cost of these areas. All administrative functions for parking are handled by the Parking
Authority. All vehicles that park on campus must have a parking permit. Free permits are available at
Public Safety for University visitors, and parking meters are available for short-term parking. There is
also a free lot for students, faculty, staff, and visitors.
Transportation Between Campuses
Since 1991, the University has contracted with Laidlaw to provide a bus shuttle between Moon Campus
and the Pittsburgh Center. The shuttle runs Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. while
classes are in session. Available to faculty, staff, and students, the shuttle has improved access between
the two locations.
Recommendations
Continue to increase number of parking spaces by following the proposals in the Master Plan
(Master Plan drawings 6, 10).
Intramural and Exercise Facilities
Intramurals
The Intramurals Office is located in the John Jay Center and coordinates all intramural activities
for the University. The Gus Krop Gym in the John Jay Center continues to provide facilities for all
indoor intramurals. Outdoor intramurals use the John Jay Athletic Field (formerly the varsity soccer
field), the practice field above the Sewall Center, and the basketball courts at the North Athletic Complex.
All sites serve the students well in this capacity.
Exercise Facilities
Since 1999, with the addition of the Health Club located in the Student center, the students have
access to state-of-the-art workout room complete with cyber machines, treadmills, stair climbers, bikes,
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free weights, and racquetball courts. The Health Club is open from 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. seven days a
week and is available to all students.
Intercollegiate Sports Facilities
The University supports 15 men’s and women’s varsity teams and 3 club teams. Six facilities are
used for practices and contests.
The major changes in the University’s sports have been the addition of football in 1994 and
women’s crew in 1996. The football offices and locker rooms are housed in John Jay Center. The locker
room has 90 39inch open-air stalls. The entire complex is 5,207 square feet and includes a training
facility, the coaches’ locker room, meeting rooms, restrooms, and showers. Practice is held at John Jay
Field, just above the complex. Home games are played at Moon Township High School. The cost of
converting the indoor swimming pool into a locker room was $352,000. The University is allowed to
meet the full needs of 10 players per year. The main reason the University wanted a football team was to
increase enrollment and provide additional student activities. The football program has accounted for 512
students since 1995 (1995 – 106: 1996 – 50: 1997 – 50: 1998 – 75: 1999 – 66: 2000 - 80: 2001 – 85).
The home football games and related events provide additional week-end activities.
In 1996 the University added women’s crew. This addition was necessary in order to comply
with mandates stated in Title IX after the addition of men’s football. The team built and shares a
boathouse on Neville Island. Matches are held in October and November and practice resumes in April
and May. The women’s crew team has three full scholarships available to it.
The Center for Leadership provides facilities for the University’s basketball, track, and volleyball
teams. The North Athletic Complex provides facilities for the cross-country, softball, soccer, and tennis
teams. The golf team plays and practices at two local country clubs.
During the Master Plan process, space was set aside for a proposed 5,000-seat stadium with a
surrounding track to provide an on-campus facility for football and track.
After analyzing information gathered during the interview process, the current athletic facilities
meet the University’s goals and mission and serve their sports well.
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BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS
The buildings and grounds of both campuses are well maintained, safe, accessible to all potential
constituencies, and project a positive, professional image of the University.
Maintenance
The maintenance needs of buildings, grounds, furniture, and equipment, are identified, scheduled,
and addressed in accordance with a well-designed and articulated written plan. This plan also includes
prudent routine scheduled maintenance on all buildings and systems.
Discussion
The Physical Plant Department is an integrated entity that reports to the Executive Director of
Facilities and Public Safety. Its two main areas of responsibility are maintenance and custodial with a
total budget of $3,450,000: $2,600,000 for the Moon Township Campus and $850,000 for the Pittsburgh
Center. An additional $400,000 is budgeted for special projects and deferred maintenance. There are a
total of 63 positions that comprise the Physical Plant staff. Six administrative positions serve the Moon
Township Campus. The rest of the Moon Township staff serve in the following capacities: mechanical
(seven), grounds (eight), and environmental services (twenty). This staff maintains our 24 buildings
(627,023 square feet), 230 acres, and five miles of roads and pathways. Similarly, the Pittsburgh Center
employs one administrator, mechanic (one), and custodians (ten) to maintain its 114,000 square feet in
two buildings. The central office for the department occupies the Wayne Center on the east side of the
Moon Campus.
To provide the services needed to support the mission of the University and the Planning
Council’s Goals, a “Buildings and Roadways Project Improvement Report” is prepared annually. This
report includes preventative and deferred maintenance items, special projects, beautification plans,
schedules, and budget requirements. Additionally, a separate custodial plan is prepared each year. This
plan includes the schedules for routine cleaning, extraordinary and seasonal projects, and personnel
assignments and recommendations. The maintenance and custodial divisions operate continuously (three
shifts, seven days per week) throughout the year including semester breaks and holidays.
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The University maintains a Building/Area Captain program. This is a system designed to assess
and promptly and effectively inform the Maintenance Department of necessary repairs to the University’s
buildings and physical facilities. The objective is to shorten the response time to maintenance requests.
The Building/Area Captains, generally those who work in or are responsible for a given building or
portion thereof, serve to monitor their assigned areas, collect complaints and suggestions from other users
of the area. Historically, the Building Captain would fill out a work request form that would then be sent
to the Physical Plant and prioritized. This year, the administration purchased and implemented an
electronic reporting system (MSRequest), which links to their maintenance software system and instantly
generates a work order, which is then assigned to the appropriate personnel. The implementation of this
system has significantly improved the Department’s ability to respond, track, and follow up on requests in
a more timely fashion. In addition, the databank and work order system itself were installed on
computers in the Residence Life office so that they have the ability to immediately generate a work order
and follow its progress through completion. This sharing of software and utilization of technology has
served to save both Residence Life and Physical Plant staff considerable redundancy of effort, as well as
improve response time to student requests and improve understanding of each department’s needs and
abilities.
The department of Facilities and Public Safety employs a Coordinator whose duties include
facility inspections on a biannual basis. This inspection is a thorough campus-wide evaluation of each
room, hallway, stairway and grounds associated with each building. He submits his findings to the
Director of Physical Plant as well as to the Safety Committee, which is chaired by the Executive Director
of Facilities and Public Safety. This provides another means of identifying any potential problems that
may not have been addressed by a Building/Area Captain.
Results of our Facilities Survey (Appendix A) indicate that the campus grounds improve the
image of the University (48.2% agree) and that the campus buildings improve the image of the University
(56.0% agree).
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The primary area of concern identified in our survey, as has been the case in the past, is the
maintenance of the Campus buildings (33.3% felt that buildings were not well maintained), though the
response is more positive than it has been in the past (Appendix A). The Physical Plant has worked to
improve their responsiveness to the needs of the University community and it is reflected in the majority
of favorable responses to questions about facilities maintenance.
Recommendations
To insure that the facilities and equipment of the University are systematically maintained and updated,
continue data entry and implementation of Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS).
Through continued input an analysis of data we will be able to better utilize assets, staff, and resources
toward a goal of customer satisfaction. We will also be better able to track requests, jobs and assets.
Develop a long-range ten-year maintenance program and plan for implementation.
Continue to refine the process of “closing the loop” on maintenance
requests and service.
Plan and implement a model of CMMS to track and control flow of inventory and asset
movement on campus.
Develop a controlled receiving procedure within the Physical Plant.
Image of Buildings
The buildings, grounds, furnishings, and equipment of the University help it to project an
appropriate professional, businesslike, and successful image as an institution of higher education. As
indicated in the Facilities Subcommittee Survey (Appendix A), a high percentage of the respondents felt
that the Campus grounds and buildings “improve the image and appearance of the University.” (grounds:
48% agree, buildings: 56% agree). In 1994 the University hired Celli-Flynn and Associates, an
architectural firm, to conduct a facilities audit and help to devise a Campus Master Plan to include athletic
facilities and student housing plan. Since the plan was finalized and implemented, Phase I has been
completed including: the renovation of the Junior Achievement Building to house the Admissions and
Visitors Center, the development of an Athletic Complex, construction of the Student Center, the
renovation of the first floor of John Jay Center to provide a specialized area for the Engineering program,
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the redirection of several roadways, the construction of student apartments, and the decommissioning of
Jefferson Center until significant renovations have been undertaken. The Master Plan continues to
provide an outline for improvements into the future. The administrative and classroom buildings of the
University provide a smoke free workplace and learning environment. With the exception of private
student rooms and a designated area in the Pittsburgh Center, the University is smoke-free.
Recommendations
See recommendations for specific activity buildings: i.e., residence halls, classrooms, etc.)
Image of Outside Environment
Discussion
The grounds received the highest overall ratings in our maintenance survey. The University has
continued to improve the look and feel of the campus as per Master Plan designations with landscape
architectural features and the consultation of Chambers Design Associates, a Landscape Architectural
firm.
Exterior lighting continues to be a concern that is being addressed. The walkway lights were
upgraded and standardized with the addition of the Athletic Complex walkways and the pathways to and
from the Student Center. The lights in the Sewall Center Parking lot were updated and augmented last
summer. The concrete steps entering Hale Center, Patrick Henry and the Sewall Center have been
resurfaced and a sealant applied to provide a safe pedestrian surface and a more visually appealing finish.
Recommendations
To help the University project a professional, business-like, successful image as an institution of
higher education and to provide an environment that is safe and well lighted, it should continue the
following:
Create visually appealing, logically grouped areas of activity as outlined in the Campus Master
Plan.
Replace and augment street lighting and walkway lighting.
Identify and pave naturally occurring, sensible pathways.
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Environmentally Safe Environment
Asbestos
The University continues to strive to provide a safe learning environment. The only asbestos
present after the dormitory abatement was complete was located in the classroom buildings of Hale
Center and Franklin Center and Jefferson Center. Hale and Franklin Centers were abated completely
wherever possible, and encapsulated wherever removal was not feasible. Jefferson Center is not currently
in use. The University has had Allegheny Asbestos conduct a study of the building and test the materials
used in construction. The asbestos containing materials have been identified and quantified. Allegheny
Asbestos also acted as a consultant when this project and Franklin Center were put out to bid. An
abatement plan for Jefferson is being considered while renovations are planned.
Paint Thinners and Other Solvents
Where possible, attempts are made to use the least polluting types of cleaners and solvents. Spent
chemicals are stored in appropriate containers until they can be disposed of properly. Allegheny Asbestos
is working with the Physical Plant to identify and recycle or dispose of any possible pollutants.
Conclusions
Robert Morris University provides an environmentally safe environment free from noxious substances at
both locations.
Policy for Disabled Persons
The University has a clearly articulated and reasonable policy for making facilities accessible to
physically handicapped persons. This policy is in compliance with all current laws governing access.
The Americans with Disabilities Act
The Public Accommodations section of this act and sections pertaining to newly constructed or
renovated facilities is strictly adhered to in any design, construction, or renovation of our campus.
Robert Morris University
University facilities, when remodeled or newly constructed, are always done so to ensure ADA
compliance, as well as to meet local and state requirements. The newest building, the Student
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Apartments, were designed to exceed the current standard for ADA construction. By exceeding the
recommended standards, the University is committing to building a “visitable” structure. All of the
doorways in the apartments will accommodate a wheelchair, so that even though a student may not be
handicapped, any family member or friend who is, can still access a student’s room.
Recommendations
Continue the University commitment to meet or, where possible, exceed the ADA requirements
to make the campus friendly to all populations.
Safety/Security
The physical facilities of both campuses are safe so as to minimize opportunities for accidents
and for the commission of crime. The Facilities Subcommittee Survey indicates that the vast majority of
respondents feel safe on Campus. The Facilities and Public Safety Departments are committed to
continue to make improvements as necessary and feasible to continue to keep our population of this
opinion.
Policies and Procedures
The University provides a safe and secure environment with its policies as published in the
booklet “Robert Morris University: the University and University Security and Information Act” and by
the Campus Police. The Executive Director of Facilities and Public Safety manages this department. It is
comprised of one manager, one sergeant, one corporal, four police officers, and six public safety officers.
The Public Safety department operates continuously (three shifts, seven days per week) throughout the
year including semester breaks and holidays. The department is housed in the Barry Center. There are
two police vehicles employed for patrolling on Campus. In addition, in order to promote a feeling of
community policing, RMC has two officers equipped for bike patrol in the spring, summer and fall
months. Close contact is maintained with local police. A daily log is maintained on ARMS (Automated
Records Management System), a real time dispatch, reporting software package. The campus police also
monitor and maintain the University parking program. The University publishes and distributes an
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annually updated report of crime statistics for a three-year period, as mandated by the University and
University Security Information Act (Appendix D).
Campus Police Officers have complete powers of arrest under Pennsylvania Law and are sworn
in by the Allegheny Court of Common Pleas.
Violators for summary offenses may be cited, at the discretion of the arresting officer, either by
issuance of an arrest citation or by a Student Judicial Code Form. An arrest citation will require the
violator to appear before the local district magistrate where he or she may either plead guilty to the charge
and pay the fine or ask for a hearing at which the arresting officer must appear.
A violator cited under the Student Judicial Code must appear before the Dean of Students or the
Director of Residence Life and Judicial Services. The University has formed a Safety Committee that
was recognized and certified by the State of Pennsylvania in July 2000. The committee works to identify
safety concerns and conduct accident investigations on campus, as well as to act as a body to which the
campus community may address safety concerns. In January 2001, the committee was addressed by the
president of a student group with several concerns and was able to satisfactorily satisfy them in a short
period of time.
The University has installed eight “blue light” emergency telephones on the Moon Campus.
These telephones, in concert with the ongoing process of lighting upgrades, will help to make any
member of the community feel connected, even in the remote portions of the campus. The emergency
telephones provide a direct connection to the dispatch office in the Public Safety Department and are
equipped with both emergency and information buttons. In the event of an emergency, the department is
immediately notified of the location of the caller, by computer operation, and is in verbal contact once the
button is pushed. This button also activates a blue light at the top of a tower, hence the name.
The use of card access has been implemented in the construction of the Student Apartments. It
will be a secure building. As card access continues to be in demand on Campus, the Facilities and Public
Safety Departments will continue to provide this security wherever possible.
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The Pittsburgh Center at 718 Fifth Avenue recently gained card control access to its elevator and
a camera in the lobby to increase security in that building.
Recommendations
Safety and security of the University community should continue to be a priority at both campuses.
Wherever possible and financially feasible, the Public Safety Department should use new technology to
carry out its mission.
FACILITIES FOR BUSINESS AND COMMUNITY INTERESTS
The Charles L. Sewall Center for Leadership
Discussion
The University’s primary source of facilities for business and community interests continues to be
the Charles L. Sewall Center for Leadership. The center was built in response to both the community’s
and the University’s need for a conference and exhibition center. The University also needed an
intercollegiate athletics facility. The center draws a variety of public informational and educational
programs. For example, the Center hosts public meetings on topics such as airport expansion, highway
planning, and environmental problems. Local companies and organizations utilize the Center’s
boardrooms and conference rooms for seminars, presentations, meetings, and business luncheons.
The area/exhibition level of the Center is home to many community athletic events and
exhibitions, ranging from philatelic and numismatic exhibitions to educational/training conferences for
large companies and organizations. Although priority is given to University-related activities, demand for
the center by corporations, local businesses, educational and community organizations, and federal, state,
and county entities has increased steadily since its opening in 1985.
In 1999-2000 the Center managed more than 320 external events that attracted 63,000
participants and generated close to $900,000 income.
To serve its customers better, the Center’s facilities have been improved over the years. The most
important of these occurred last year when the Center’s technology capabilities were upgraded. Additions
included a multimedia projection room with a high resolution projector and computer combination,
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network connections in all meeting and dining rooms, a scanner, a digital camera, and a DVD player.
These additional technologies put the Center on par with the high-tech capabilities of its competitors and
will enable the staff to pursue new clients previously unavailable to the Center.
Additional facilities utilized for outside and community interests include the new Student Center
and the Massey Hall Theater and Gardens. Resources available at these venues fully meet the demands
for these functions.
In addition, space in dormitories, classroom buildings, and parking lots at the Moon campus is
rented or donated to businesses, organizations, and community groups when they are not needed for the
University’s teaching mission.
Recommendations
Although the Director rated the Center’s current facilities excellent during the interview, the
Subcommittee recommends that the University carry out proposed Sewall Center expansion of the
conference area, exhibition space, kitchen, dining and meeting areas as detailed in the Master Plan
(Master Plan pp.6, 18). The expansion would enable the Center to increase bookings and produce
additional income. As the Director noted during the interview, the Center continues to turn away many
potential customers because of a lack of available space.
Pittsburgh Center
The Pittsburgh Center hosts few outside events because the available space is used by classes and
other University-related functions in the hours most demanded by outside groups.
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Appendices
Appendix A …………………..…………………………………………. Facilities Survey
Appendix B …………………..…………………………………Buildings Size and Usage
Appendix C ……………….…….………………………………………..Technology Plan
Appendix D ………………..………….. University and University Security Information Act
Appendix E ………………….………………………………… Computer Lab Equipment
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