The Cayuga Medical Center A Case Study in Landscape Master Planning and Sustainability

Long-term planning is essential for larger institutions to achieve sustainable goals and visions. To be truly sustainable, individual projects must fit within a larger scope of campus planning. Landscape and site systems such as parking, transportation, pedestrian connectivity, storm water treatment, and human health and well-being must be considered and coordinated. The Cayuga Medical Center in Ithaca, New York, is an example of effective long-term master planning that takes into account both building sustainability and site sustainability. Master planning for the campus incorporated guidelines such as creating a healing environment, improving wayfinding and site circulation, minimizing impervious surfaces, and increasing stormwater quality. Individual projects were incorporated under the master plan to express the overall vision and create a more sustainable campus with numerous opportunities to view and experience gardens and nature. The Emergency Department addition received LEED Silver certi...