Meadville-Lombard Theological School

As a result of growth of its operations, Meadville-Lombard Theological School (MLTS)) began in 2001 to consider ways to provide additional space for its academic programs and student housing. Base on a facilities needs assessment, MLTS determined that additional space is required for offices, classrooms, new library and student housing.

On January 14, 2004, MLTS retained Institutional Project Management (IPM) to commence a comparative feasibility study to review options and to develop a Strategic Facility Report. To accomplish this assignment, IPM provided the following services; Programming, Current Site Evaluation, Partnership/Collaboration, Site Selection/Community Outreach, Facility Concept, and Initial Budget and Financing Plan.

Programming and Current Site Evaluation analysis was performed and resulted in the need for additional academic and student housing space for the institution. The Evaluation of the site resulted in additional square footage requirements which could be obtained through additions to existing structures and/or possible moving of campus to another location.

Partnership/Collaboration with neighboring institutions resulted in agreed upon future engagement opportunities. However, immediate agreement(s) could not be obtained.

Alternate Site Selection and Community Outreach and Facility Concept(s) resulted in new opportunities for MLTS to locate their new campus close to their existing campus.

Several Budget and Financing proposals were presented as solutions to MLTS needs. Of the options presented, all were feasible but relied on the vision of the institution to drive the future commitment.