1974 Comprehensive Plan Updating
Overview
The State University of New York system began in 1844 in downtown Albany, New York, and has since expanded State
wide. In 1961 renowned architect Edward Durell Stone commenced the design of the new uptown campus, located on
Washington Avenue. The campus is historically significant due to its unique design and concept of style and bold
architecture. The design of the central Podium containing the academic buildings, with the residents towers and low rise
quads located at the corners was developed in a vision of Stone's to create an integrated pedestrian friendly campus,
void of traffic and parking in this central campus area. The sweeping canopy, colonnades, domes, pools, and fountains
with surrounding pathways and landscaping all contribute towards the vision of a single unified and harmonious
experience.
Much of Stone's vision is observed at the main entrance to the campus from Washington Avenue where the view of the
campus with the large greenscape of Collins Circle along with the Podium and fountains. All vehicles travel on the
campus on a surrounding ring road and all parking is located outside of the building areas. The pedestrian friendly
environment is furthered with the use of pathways throughout the campus and the incorporation of nature trails around
Parker Pond.
-Link to PDF - 1974 Comprehensive Plan Updating