I’m a native of Bloomington and graduate of IU. I’m writing to say, very respectfully, that I’m opposed to IU’s proposal to build an outdoor amphitheater in the green space between Bryan House and Ballantine Hall. This is a historic, extraordinarily beautiful area of campus that deserves protection as much as the Old Crescent.
I am also opposed to IU’s plan to build a new pavilion and patio area for Bryan House if it means the current landscape around Bryan House will be changed. There are so many other wonderful places on campus that can be used for receptions and meetings for large groups, and I believe the beautiful, historic landscape around Bryan House should also be preserved.
In his last presidential address to IU alumni, Herman B Wells said, “I hope our alumni will always insist upon retention of our precious islands of green and serenity — our most important physical asset, transcending even classrooms, libraries and laboratories in their ability to inspire students to dream long dreams of future usefulness and achievement — dreams that are an important and essential part of undergraduate college experience.”
IU’s campus, considered by many to be one of the most beautiful in the United States, is a source of pride and pleasure for both the university community and the Bloomington community. I’m sure its great natural beauty has a very positive effect on the spirits of all faculty, staff, students and visitors who have the privilege of seeing and experiencing it. It’s very important that future generations have the same opportunity.
If the decision is made to build on outdoor amphitheater, I believe it should be on a site that will not mean destroying or even changing an area of campus that has become an IU treasure. I hope everyone who agrees will write to the University.
Carol Thompson
IU alumna
