Planning, Design and Construction is responsible for campus planning, capital project programming and development, real estate activities, campus construction, permitting, and facilities information management.
PDC is composed of three groups:
Facilities Information Systems (FIS) provides critical technology support and systems management for the Facilities Management Department. Core elements include the Space Inventory database, Campus Viewer GIS app, document management, photosphere collections and the eBuilder Project Management Information System. FIS also manages authoritative building IDs and room numbers used across campus systems.
- Space Inventory: The Space Inventory is the university’s official database of buildings and interior spaces, capturing room numbers, square footage, usage type, and department assignments. Maintained through field checks and coordination with project managers, the inventory supports planning, reporting, and compliance needs such as accreditation, NSF reports, research costing, and utilization analysis.
- Campus Viewer: The Campus Viewer is a Geographic Information System (GIS)-based web app that provides interactive floor-by-floor maps of UMass Lowell’s buildings and grounds. Core layers include interior spaces, such as classrooms, offices, and labs. The viewer also includes overlays for capital projects and life safety systems. Regularly updated, it is accessible to faculty and staff.
- Photospheres: In collaboration with Web Services, FIS collects and manages 360-degree views of campus interiors through a custom photosphere app, offering detailed visual context for campus planning and operations. Access is available by request via fis-help@uml.edu.
- Document Management: The FIS team manages Facilities Management’s documentation through a Microsoft SharePoint site, maintaining centralized access to project records and departmental information. The team develops and implements document management standards, supports project teams with document tagging and organization.
A key element of this system is the Facilities document library, which includes the project archives—a searchable collection of project drawings, specifications, manuals, and other closeout materials. The FIS team works closely with project teams throughout the life cycle of a project to communicate documentation expectations and ensure that all required materials are properly submitted and archived. - eBuilder: eBuilder is UMass Lowell’s Facilities project management system that supports planning, execution, and oversight of campus construction and renovation projects. It is used by Facilities staff, approved contractors, and stakeholders with role-based access. The system streamlines budgets, schedules, decisions, and documentation, while FIS manages user accounts, provides training and ensures consistent project setup and reporting. For questions or support, contact ebhelp@uml.edu.
The Planning Department within Facilities Management works collaboratively with the university community to guide the evolution of UMass Lowell’s physical campus. It collects and maintains facility information, accommodates growth needs, and improves existing infrastructure—all while prioritizing environmental sustainability and being mindful of both the university’s neighbors and the broader Lowell community. Key activities include:
- Campus Planning: Provides long-term strategic guidance for the development and cohesion of all campuses
- Space Planning: Assesses space needs, conducts feasibility studies, and oversees programming and design to ensure facilities are effective and up to date. Supports the Space Committee in making informed decisions on campus space usage and in their efforts to accommodate evolving campus facilities needs.
- Capital Project Planning: Defines program requirements and supports early-stage design for capital projects, in collaboration with the Finance Office.
Contact: planning@uml.edu
Current Planning Initiatives
The following is the list of current planning initiatives across the university. The list is updated periodically.
UMass Lowell’s Project Management team oversees all phases of campus projects—from initial scoping and programming through to design, construction, and occupancy. Their structured process ensures alignment with project goals while maintaining compliance with state and university regulations.
Team Expertise & Values
The Project Management team combines expertise in:
- Architecture and Interior Design
- Urban Planning
- Engineering and Construction
- Business and Facilities Management
Guided by a strong commitment to service, the team operates with:
Accountability, Organization, Reliability, Thoroughness, Integrity, Professionalism, and Responsiveness.
Key Responsibilities Include:
- Defining project scope
- Creating and managing schedules and budgets
- Tracking and reporting progress
- Coordinating internal and external teams
- Maintaining clear communication throughout the project lifecycle