Finding Pittsburgh campus resources like dining locations, fitness centers and parking spaces has become much easier — and more experiential — using the University’s new interactive campus map.
Upgrades to the digital experience mean that the map includes not only a comprehensive listing of University buildings, medical and fitness centers and dining locations, but also imagery and intuitive, category-based browsing. Additionally, all listings allow users to share the info with others via a link or social media and to get step-by-step directions to the location.
A 360-degree virtual campus tour that launched in April lets users visit the first and third floors of the Cathedral of Learning and all its Nationality Rooms, Schenley Plaza, Hillman Library and other campus locations in a fully navigable virtual environment. Buildings scheduled to be added include the Barco Law Building, Benedum Hall and Scaife Hall’s lobby.
“The new campus map and 360-degree virtual tour work together in a combined effort to showcase the campus in a more dynamic way than before,” said Kristen Penkrot, digital project manager in the Office of University Communications.
Fostering accessibility and sustainability
Users can choose the “ADA Accessibility” category to view a list of Pitt buildings’ accessible entrances. Selecting a particular entrance will pinpoint the accessible entrance on the map and display a window with photos and text-based information.
The “Sustainability” category displays locations and details about the eco-friendly Falk School Green Roof and the Petersen Events Center Rain Garden. Additionally, the map displays details about where you can compost on campus.
Getting to — and around — campus
The site includes a wealth of information for those who commute into Oakland.
Users can learn more about parking options, including both lots and metered locations. For lots like the Sennott Square and O’Hara parking garages, the website links to information about daily, evening, weekend and special event rates.
Bicyclists can find information about lockers and racks, as well as campus bike fix-it stations (where cyclists have access to air pumps, wrenches and other tools) in the “Transportation” category. These listings also link to instructional videos on common bike repairs.
Those who use campus shuttles can view full shuttle routes and individual stops. Riders can also view PDF maps and schedules.
The upgraded map site is optimized for both desktop and mobile usage; an upgrade to integrate the 360-degree virtual reality feature into the current tour site is anticipated to be completed in August.
Read more about the map’s launch at University Times.