7 Questions About the Millennial Campus Development Process

In January, UNC Asheville established the Millennial Campus Development Advisory Committee to evaluate potential future uses of its Millennial Campus properties and recommend a responsible path forward. The Committee is presently reviewing more than 200 acres of university-owned property, including approximately 54 acres along the south edge of the campus facing Broadway Street.

Below are seven key questions and answers about the Millennial Campus development process and how the community can stay informed and engaged.

1. What is the Committee actually responsible for?

Operating independently through the UNC Asheville Endowment Fund Board, the Committee brings together leaders with expertise in higher education governance, environmental stewardship, planning and development, and regional economics. Members were selected for their ability to evaluate complex issues from multiple perspectives.

“Our job is to look carefully at the opportunities and the risks,” said co-chair Adam Walters. “We are asking what would truly serve the university’s mission.”

Over several months of workshops and stakeholder engagement, the Committee will shape its findings into a Millennial Campus Action Plan. From there, any future steps would move through established university governance and approval channels.

2. Why is UNC Asheville exploring development now?

Across the country, public institutions are navigating a more complex financial reality. State appropriations make up a smaller share of university operating budgets than they once did, while costs related to instruction, facilities, technology, and student support continue to rise. At the same time, competition for students has intensified. UNC Asheville is not immune to those pressures.

In response, the university is exploring strategies that not only strengthen long-term financial sustainability but also advance its academic mission and service to the region.

“Higher education is evolving,” Walters said. “If we want UNC Asheville to remain competitive and accessible, we have to think proactively.”

3. What kinds of ideas are being considered?

Discussions include whether development should incorporate housing beyond traditional student residences, such as workforce or faculty housing, and what models would best support enrollment and community connection. Members are also considering amenities that could serve both students and neighbors, such as childcare, small retail, food and beverage options, wellness services, and flexible programming space. Shared recreational or cultural spaces, such as trails or gathering areas, are part of the conversation as well.

“These conversations are about possibilities, not promises,” Walters said. “We want to surface the best ideas and understand the concerns before any decisions are made.”

4. How is public input being gathered?

Public engagement is central to the process, with several opportunities for participation.

Supported by HR&A Advisors and Parks PR, the Committee is conducting 15- to 20-minute interviews with campus leaders, neighborhood representatives, business and civic stakeholders, and environmental advocates; hosting online small-group conversations with invited participants representing a range of community and university perspectives; and offering a public feedback platform open to all.

“All of this only works if we listen carefully,” Walters said. “People are taking time to share thoughtful perspectives with us, and we take that seriously. Our responsibility is to weigh that input carefully and reflect it in recommendations that serve both the university and the broader community.”

5. Why are Committee meetings not open to the public?

Because the Committee must review confidential financial and legal materials, its working sessions are closed. This structure allows members to evaluate complex information thoroughly and responsibly. However, transparency remains a priority, and regular updates will be shared online so that the broader community can stay informed.

6. What happens next?

The Committee is expected to meet monthly through the spring. After its final workshop, HR&A Advisors will compile the Committee’s recommendations into a formal action plan for consideration by the university. Again, no outcomes have been finalized and all recommendations from the community and external stakeholders will be carefully considered. The process is still underway, with formal recommendations to be shared in the spring.

7. How can I participate?

Students, faculty, staff, alumni, neighbors, and regional stakeholders are encouraged to share their perspectives at go.unca.edu/millennial-campus.