College prepares for growth and adds on

Since Teddy Roosevelt was president, the borders of the campus have remained constant. The plot of land that today is home to The College of St. Scholastica, St. Scholastica Monastery, the Benedictine Health Center and Westwood Senior apartments has been 160 acres since 1907. As of last month, the 95-year-old boundaries have changed. In April the College purchased 25 acres of wooded highland "behind" campus along its northwest corner

From Tower Hall, the contiguous parcel is reached by going past the apartment buildings and their parking lot. The College made the purchase for several reasons, said Patrick Flattery, vice president of finance. The College had become aware of outside interest in developing the property. The College was interested in an opportunity to expand the campus grounds, and the 26 acres offer options for possible future building sites.

Plus, it's valuable land that will increase in value over time even if the College doesn't develop it. "This land enhances the natural beauty of our campus," Flattery said. The parcel is wooded with birch, maple and pine. The west branch of Chester Creek runs through it. It supports wildlife, and is crossed by walking trails.

"It's really quite beautiful wooded property," Flattery said.