MPC Unanimously Approves Campus Master Plan

November 21st, 2006

The Montecito Planning Commission unanimously approved Westmont’s Campus Master Plan. The approval brings the college a step closer to alleviating crowded conditions for students while enhancing the historic gardens and open space at the campus.

Barring an appeal to the board of supervisors, college officials are hopeful to begin construction in 2008. The first phase of construction includes the Winter Hall for the Sciences, the Adams Center for Visual Arts, a chapel and a residence hall.

A recent $75 million gift from an anonymous donor will help pay for the first phase of construction, expected to exceed $100 million.

In return for approval of the Campus Master Plan the college agreed to 120 conditions in its updated use permit, strictly regulating everything from what time of the day construction can begin to campus lighting. The college currently operates under 31.

One of the most significant conditions is the college’s willingness to monitor and control the existing traffic on Cold Spring Road. Right now the college only controls the number of vehicles parked on campus.

“We wanted to go beyond parking and we proposed a comprehensive solution to get at what the community experiences and that’s traffic,” says Ron Cronk, senior advisor to the chancellor.

Despite the number of conditions and benefits to the community, a small group of opponents have hinted they will appeal the decision to the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors.

“It would be huge disservice after 60 hours and 12 days of public hearings with the MPC that these few people would appeal such a strong statement by those who represent Montecito and put the decision in the hands of county board of supervisors,” Cronk says.