A team of architects, engineers and planners has begun work on a master plan for the Wayne State University campus designed to create the "model urban university for the 21st century."

Work began in recent months following President Irvin D. Reid's announcement that one of his 10 challenges during his first two years as president was to create a "celebration of entry" to the university's sprawling New Center Area campus.

Once planners began exploring plans for new facilities, including a "Welcome Center," a "Wellness Center," and other new amenities for students and visitors, the need for a comprehensive plan for the growth of the campus was recognized.

The work on the Wayne State University Facilities/Campus Master Plan began with the appointment of the architectural firm The Albert Kahn Collaborative and selection of a steering committee and a project team. Goals of the teams include developing an affordable master plan and involving the entire campus community in the planning process.

The steering committee is chaired by John L. Davis, senior vice president of finance and administration, and includes 13 people from the president's cabinet as well as representatives of the Academic Senate, the faculty and the student body. The project team has 11 people, with Mike Ellicott, the head of the physical plant, as project director.

The teams have begun to meet with the Board of Governors and will be meeting with faculty, staff and students this week.

Extensive interviews with people in the community will be followed daylong brainstorming sessions in June and July, more meetings with the Board of Governors culminating with an announcement of a Strategic Vision Plan during President Reid's Sept. 18 Inauguration.

The Master Plan should be competed in the following year.