Planning for the Long-Term Performance of Campus Infrastructure
Liberty University sought a comprehensive understanding of the condition of several high-use campus structures to support long-term maintenance planning and capital budgeting. The portfolio included a nine-story and a five-story precast concrete parking garage, steel-supported pedestrian bridge systems, segmental retaining walls, and the 25,000-seat Arthur L. Williams Stadium. Together, these facilities incorporate a wide range of structural systems, including precast double tees, cast-in-place concrete framing, structural steel beams and girders, concrete risers and stringers, guardrail assemblies, and façade cladding systems. With diverse structural types, varying maintenance needs, and continuous use by students, faculty, athletes, and visitors, Liberty University required a clear strategy for prioritizing repairs while minimizing disruption to campus operations.
Assessing Multiple Structures to Support Asset Management
Walker Consultants performed comprehensive visual condition assessments of each structure, evaluating structural concrete, steel framing, waterproofing systems, drainage components, sealants, coatings, expansion joints, façade elements, and other critical building components. The assessments encompassed a wide range of structural systems, including precast concrete parking structures, cast-in-place concrete framing, structural steel members, concrete seating systems, guardrails, and exterior cladding.
Using the field observations and engineering evaluations, Walker developed conceptual repair recommendations supported by representative photo documentation. The findings were incorporated into individual five-year Asset Management Plans (AMPs) for each structure, prioritizing repairs as Immediate, 2–3 Year, and 4–5 Year needs. Each plan also included Opinions of Probable Cost to help guide future maintenance investments and provided a framework for recurring annual updates.
Supporting Proactive Maintenance and Capital Planning
The completed Asset Management Plans gave Liberty University a practical roadmap for managing multiple campus assets over time. By identifying maintenance needs before they became more significant, the University could prioritize repairs, better forecast capital expenditures, and reduce the risk of unexpected deterioration. The result was a strategic approach to maintaining the long-term safety, durability, and performance of critical parking and athletic facilities across campus.
