Infrastructure Planning and Facilties recognized with AURP’s inaugural Master Planning Excellence in Innovation Award

Michigan State University’s Infrastructure Planning and Facilities (IPF) has been honored with the Association of University Research Parks (AURP) inaugural Master Planning Excellence in Innovation Award. The recognition highlights IPF’s leadership in shaping the future of research, economic development, and placemaking through a transformational master plan for the new Crescent Road Innovation District in East Lansing.

Developed in partnership with the MSU Research Foundation, Perkins&Will, and Stiletto, the 140 acre master plan outlines a bold vision for converting underutilized land on the southern edge of MSU’s campus into a vibrant, mixed-use district where industry partners, researchers, and the community can come together in an integrated environment.

Through extensive analysis, Stiletto identified four priority industry sectors where MSU already excels and is poised for continued expansion:

• Advanced manufacturing and materials
• Agricultural technology
• Biomedicine and biotechnology
• Sustainable technologies

These sectors serve as the district’s foundation, guiding land use, building types, and partnership opportunities. The plan envisions a welcoming, walkable destination that supports innovation while fostering meaningful engagement between MSU and community partners.

The Crescent Road Innovation District plan integrates research, office, retail, hospitality, and residential spaces into a cohesive, connected environment. This mix is designed to encourage collaboration between private industry and university researchers, accelerating discovery and commercialization.

Placemaking plays a central role, with complete streets, active ground-floor spaces, and a thoughtfully designed network of parks and open spaces. Together, these elements create a district identity that is both distinctive and inviting—reflecting MSU’s values while meeting the needs of modern research-driven development.

The AURP Master Planning Excellence in Innovation Award celebrates this collective achievement—recognizing MSU IPF’s leadership in shaping a district that will serve as a model for research-driven economic development for years to come.