The Ohio State University at Mansfield
IN-3: Innovation 3

Re: Campus Co-Location/Cost-Sharing, Framework Plan, Community Partnerships and Improved Efficiencies

The Mansfield Campus shared by The Ohio State University Mansfield (OSU-M) and North Central State Technical College (NCSC) are co-located on 640 acres north of SR-30 in the Cities of Mansfield and Ontario, Ohio. OSU-M and NCSC share expenses for utilities, facilities maintenance, grounds keeping, custodial services, library services, student services, child care services, recreation and public safety & security. Cost-share formulas are based on square foot occupancy and FTE for “on-campus” students, both full and part time. This collaborative arrangement between the two institutions significantly increases campus efficiencies.

The Mansfield Campus Framework Plan is a comprehensive, yet flexible asset management plan, which describes the objectives for campus growth and sustainability consistent with co-located institution strategic plans. The Framework Plan, completed in 2013, was developed collaboratively, including extensive community and business involvement. It extends the efficient and sustainable use of campus physical resources and programmatic collaborations beyond the campus boundaries. An extensive community bike/trail system, recreational facility and medical clinic are typical of “Projects of Opportunity”, “Enablers” and “Partnerships” identified in the Framework Plan. Additional information may be found by visiting the document at: http://mansfield.osu.edu click on “About OSU Mansfield” at the left and select “Framework Plan”.

Coordinated Regional Planning and Campus Framework Planning efforts have increased awareness of the “symbiotic relationship” (Fox, Michael, “Town & Gown: From Conflict to Cooperation”, Municipal World Publishing, Ontario, Canada 2014) between the University and Community. Mansfield Campus once considered a largely rural remote campus, is developing a “Campus District” plan that embraces communications, access, cooperation and development with adjacent municipalities and businesses. Working with Richland County Development Groups (RCDG) has identified the University and Campus District as key components to replenishing the local declining industrial base and an enhancement to the retail and service-oriented sector growth. The campus’ economic knowledge-based product is a driver to the community’s economic sustainability, as well as its facilities assets.