The Northwest University campus has requested approval for a 20-year master plan, totaling 364,910 square feet of construction.

The property is located along 108th Avenue Northeast in the Central Houghton Neighborhood. Key elements of the proposed plan include the addition of four new buildings and the replacement of three existing buildings.

Plans involve a new six-court indoor tennis court and an improved gymnasium pavilion, replacing the current building. An updated welcome center will replace the Pecota Student Center. Parking garages will be included under these proposed structures, providing a net gain of 250-300 stalls.

“The University shall contribute $15,000 to the City of Kirkland Neighborhood Traffic Control Program to be used to mitigate neighborhood traffic impacts in the Houghton Neighborhood in the vicinity of Northwest University,” said Senior Planner Tony Leavitt in a memorandum to Adam Weinstein, AICP, SEPA Responsible Official.

The recommended mitigation, among others, is developed to minimize citywide traffic conflicts, as well as meet specific Public Works requirements and standards. The memo references the creation of a management plan at the university for anticipated events that might result in campus parking overflow.

AstroTurf, lighting and bleachers will further enhance the athletic fields, should the plan be approved. A fitness center will also be built atop a new parking garage.

A 300-bed residence hall should allow for easier on-campus living and the replacement of the Ness Academic Center will provide much-needed updates to Fee Hall, Williams Hall, Rice Hall and Bronson Hall.

Other various improvements include modifications to building height limits, revision to traffic patterns and alterations of access to campus. The chapel will also be updated.

Northwest University was established in 1934 by the Northwest Ministry Network. The private, nonprofit Christian university is located within a semi-wooded area of 56 acres that overlooks Lake Washington.

According to the university’s website, they received more than 100 comments and forms of input from neighbors and members of the public when first discussing the master plan.

“We deeply appreciate the support for our University here in the Houghton neighborhood and understanding that to remain a vital institution we must continue to invest in our facilities.” said President of Northwest University, Dr. Joseph Castleberry, on the website.