We intend to create a dynamic, mixed-use campus that contributes to the East Deering neighborhood without unduly encroaching on it or burdening City resources. The new campus will be a pedestrian-friendly landscape supported by multi-modal programs that provide incentives for alternative transportation options.





Timeline



Completed



• February 2023: City Council approves the Institutional Overlay Zone

• Spring – Summer of 2023: Demolition of upland buildings (other than the Bean Building)



Underway

• Fall of 2023 – Winter/Spring 2024: Near term site plan process with public input

Anticipated

• Summer 2024: Construction start

• Summer 2027: (Anticipated) Roux Campus opens to students and the public

Roux in the News

Input to Proposed Institutional Overlay Zone



An Institutional Overlay Zone (IOZ) and Regulatory Framework for a phased development enables Northeastern University and IDEALS to memorialize the long-term strategic plan for the Roux Campus. Through a series of roundtable forums, neighborhood meetings and numerous meetings with constituents, we received input from neighbors and stakeholders as we worked with the City of Portland on a rezoning process to accommodate the long-term vision for the Roux Campus. The public can continue to provide input to the project through this website and during the permitting process in the months to come. We invite you to send us questions to info@rouxcampusportland.org or add your comments in our Feedback section.






Frequently Asked Questions



How will you manage traffic impacts?



It’s important to understand that travel to and from the site will be spread out across the day and night, with many students learning virtually and mid-career professionals coming only occasionally and at night. A number of roadway improvements are planned to prevent excessive congestion and facilitate bicycle and pedestrian access. Multi-modal access will be encouraged through incentives for non-vehicular travel, METRO trips will be subsidized for students and employees, carpools will get priority parking and a water taxi will have a berth on the pier. A transportation coordinator will analyze and manage access to ensure transportation demand management programs are successfully implemented.



Can the site accommodate the many uses associated with the Roux Institute?



Success of the Roux Institute is dependent on concentrating related facilities on the campus, to facilitate interaction and maximize connections among learners, scientists, researchers, faculty, entrepreneurs, lecturers and visitors. Higher buildings than what currently exists on site will maximize open space to take full advantage of this waterfront site, which all can enjoy.



How will you create a sustainable and resilient campus?



Impervious surfaces covered approximately 75% of the B&M site, including roofs, parking areas and loading dock space. Pavement extended right to the shoreline embankment. The new Roux Campus will raise site grades, maximize open space, install green roofs, incorporate passive and active energy conservation measures and use sustainable building materials to the extent possible. A Sustainability and Resilience Charter consistent with Portland and South Portland’s One Climate Future is part of the site plan application.



What is the status of City of Portland approvals for the Roux Campus?



Following a very thorough, nine-month review process by the City staff and Planning Board, the Institutional Development Plan (IDP) – the long-term vision for the site – was approved by the Planning Board and the zone change was endorsed and sent to the City Council for approval. The City Council unanimously approved the zone change in February 2023. Development of the Roux Campus is expected to proceed in phases over a period of approximately 20 years. A site plan application for the first, near-term phase was submitted to the Planning Board in November 2023. The details of the building designs, transportation plans, circulation, landscaping and all other near-term elements must be reviewed and approved by the Planning Board with input from the public.



Will the public continue to have a say in the applications going forward?



Yes. Review of the IDP and zone change at the Planning Board was preceded by six public forums, multiple one-on-one and small group meetings, four Planning Board workshops and a hearing. The City Council received public comment through emails, letters and at a public hearing prior to their vote. In addition, Neighborhood Forums have begun (see Updates for recordings and announcements) and a Community Advisory Group has begun meeting so the project can benefit from public input, and the public can be fully informed during all phases, including construction. You can also sign up for Updates on this website, provide comments or questions in the Feedback section, or email us directly at info@rouxcampusportland.org.

News Media

Information and Plans