In a June 9, 2026 article published by Crain’s Cleveland Business, B&D Director Laura Day Kane discussed the growing need for colleges and universities across Ohio and the Midwest to reevaluate their campus footprints in response to enrollment declines, financial pressures and changing demographics. Day noted that many institutions are facing difficult decisions that require balancing real estate strategies with broader operational and fiscal priorities.
The article examines how institutions in Northeast Ohio, including the University of Akron, Cleveland State University, the University of Toledo, Kent State University, Baldwin Wallace University and Lakeland Community College are rightsizing their campuses to better align with current and future needs. It highlights B&D’s work helping universities develop campus master plans that optimize space, improve building utilization and position institutions for long-term success while maintaining a strong focus on their academic mission and student experience.
To read the full article, click HERE (subscription required).