2025 Design & Master Plan - South Dakota State University

2.4 campus greens
For many, there is no more treasured campus location than the historic
College Green. From the mature trees to the grand vistas and architectural
features, this space illustrates the unique qualities that open space has on
the aesthetics of the university. It is this type of connection that all planning
for open space must achieve.
As the campus rose from the ground in the late 1800s, the College Green
provided the organizing element for the initial buildings and has carried
forward throughout the university’s history. The Campus Green has served
as a setting for many significant events including addresses by visiting
dignitaries, ROTC inspections and commencements. Generations have
participated in memorable activities on the College Green. Adding to the
significance of the space, numerous historically significant buildings are
still present near the College Green including: the Administration Building,
Coughlin Campanile*, Sylvan Theater*, Lincoln Hall, Solberg Hall, Wenona
Hall*, Wecota Hall* and Woodbine Cottage*.
* National Register of Historic Places
campus gateways and entries
In recent years, campus gateway and entry projects have improved campus
aesthetics and the visitor experience. These include:
• Installation of a landscaped median on the north end of Medary Avenue;
• Installation of a campus monument sign along the north end of Medary
Avenue;
• Lighting updates and tree planting along 11th Street extending from 22nd
Avenue to Frost Arena;
• Installation of a landscaped median on 13th Avenue leading up to the
south entrance of campus; and
• Creation of a pedestrian entrance to campus along Medary Avenue on
the north end of Berg Agricultural Hall (the west end of the Jackrabbit
Green). (See Figures 1.7, 1.8, 3.10, 3.11, and 3.13)
figure 2.5: college green event (1950) figure 2.6: president eisenhower speech on the college green (1968)
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