On display in Case Geyer Library is a three-dimensional model of Peter’s Glen, the tiered, landscaped walkway designed to connect the Upper and Middle Campuses that the University broke ground on this summer. The project is expected to be completed in the fall of 2025.
The three-dimensional model is located on the third floor of Case-Geyer, sprawling with styrofoam buildings and faux shrubbery. It showcases an impressive layout, including a staircase that stretches from the Bernstein Hall and Dana Arts Center courtyard to the Frank Dining Hall traffic circle.
Junior and architecture minor Ned Meisel is excited about the versatility of the space shown in the model.
“While the plan for this space on campus is to primarily allow foot traffic from the Upper Campus to the Middle Campus, I like how the path pulls you into private areas for socialization or reflection,” Meisel said. “It allows the area to serve both as a route to class and as a space to enjoy the outdoors and the surrounding landscape.”
This project’s lead architectural firm, Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates Inc., is also working on a high-profile project in Chicago: the Obama Presidential Library, which will have its grand opening in 2026. Today, the Valkenburgh firm is lauded for its efforts to reconcile the wilderness-urban interface. Colgate University President Brian W. Casey’s admiration for Valkenburgh, however, dates back to his years in the Ivy League. When Casey was a graduate student at Harvard University, Valkenburgh was a faculty member at the Graduate School of Design. When the Dutch Elm disease wiped out all the university’s elm trees, Valkenburgh assumed the responsibility of restoring the Harvard Yard back to its arboraceous glory. Casey recalls taking special interest in the restoration.
“I was that nerdy graduate. I would wake up really early and watch them plant all the trees. I just was amazed by [Valkenburgh] and the restoration of an academic campus,” Casey said.
The firm has worked with the University since 2016, contributing to projects such as the quad between Burke and Pinchin Halls and the restoration of Oak Drive. Casey is especially enthusiastic about the chance to enhance the campus’ natural landscape.
“I’ve always followed his career, and when I came to Colgate, I [knew] we needed to do stuff with the landscape. And it took me forever to get him to agree to do this project,” Casey said.
