"Our Purpose is to be proactive, seeking collaboration between architects, city planners, developers, the city of Charlotte, and UNCC, in order to create environs which are complimentary, connected, and contextual to a place which is our city's main institution of higher learning.

The University and Charlotte mutually benefit one another, and it is essential that the city provide assistance in ensuring the success of the University. It is the recommendation to the City of Charlotte and the task of UDI to see that any future development possesses the following five qualities:

Functional.

The development in University City must function efficiently, and not undermine the efforts of the University. The future of the University must be a consideration in all improvements and construction.

Designed.

Development in and around the University must be of the highest architectural and urban design standards, in order to create surroundings which, in present and future, can only contribute positively to the character of UNCC.

Environmentally Responsible.

As a center for research, University City must provide an example to others by taking innovative measures to protect and minimize impact on our environment, in order to enhance the quality of life which is sought by its residents and employers.

Connected and Organized.

A student of the University must have access to residences, shops, and places of employment without necessitating a car. Therefore, all further development adjacent to the University must be pedestrian-friendly, and accessible by public transportation. UDI will actively promote walkable mixed-use development for University City. Also, the implementation of a University area transit system will be a focal point of UDI.

Relevant and Contextual.

Development surrounding the University must answer to the needs of the institution, which encompasses the student body, faculty, and staff.

It is the intention of UDI to communicate these needs to the City of Charlotte and development interests in University City. UDI will devote attention toward obtaining planning efforts and infrastructure improvements in University City that are aligned with the five qualities. By analyzing what University City needs, and presenting these facts as well as recommendations to the city council, planners, and developers, UDI will strive to make UNC at Charlotte a place that our city and its residents can take pride in for generations to come.

...proactive by seeking development of a high quality for University City.