Expansion plan for Bowdoin concerns town

BRUNSWICK – A plan at Bowdoin College to build several new campus buildings has left the school’s residential neighbors worried the expansion could lead to overcrowding in parking lots and on city streets.

College officials have decided to seek comment from residents who may be the most affected by a planned concert hall, an ice arena and two dormitories school officials hope to build in the next five years.

“The one looming concern we have is that of student parking and cars,” said Harry Warren, who has lived near the college for 40 years. “There has got to be adequate parking tied in with all of these new buildings.”

Bowdoin officials presented the college’s strategic plan for future growth to the Brunswick Town Council and planning board this week. The plan outlines the creation of an additional 500 parking spaces by 2010.

Several parking spots may require shuttle buses to take students to campus.

Scott Hood, a spokesman for Bowdoin, said the college undertook the long-range planning study to remain competitive by offering facilities – such as an ice arena – that other schools do not offer.

“Everyone wants these kids. The question is, how do we get them,” Hood said.

The concert hall is expected to cost $14 million and could seat as many as 300 people.

Two freshman dormitories, costing $14 million, will likely be bonded.

Frank Heller, who has lived near the school for 26 years, says the college’s plans are great. But he, too, worries about parking.

Heller said he would like Bowdoin to provide incentives for students who ride bicycles rather than drive.

“Accommodating or even favoring a student who rides a bike would be a smart thing to do,” Heller said. “First-year students should not be allowed to bring a 20-ton SUV to campus.”