The University of Waterloo South Common has been transformed. Faculty, staff and students provided feedback through an open house presentation of the proposed design and approved a final concept and budget estimate. The preferred concept considered existing site conditions and the preservation of existing trees, improvements to views across the space, pedestrian circulation, as well as open space programming opportunities to improve the user experience and sense of place.
GSP Group led the project team to develop the design featuring a prominent plaza with moveable furniture and shade umbrellas. The plaza is connected to the space through decorative paving. Significant regrading of a berm that stretched across much of the space improved pedestrian walkways, site lines and accessibility. The design maintains much of the existing green open spaces and vegetation.
Significant regrading incorporates infiltration areas, bioswales and upgraded servicing for stormwater treatment. GSP Group coordinated with Operations Staff and the General Contractor to determine a phased approach to implementation, minimizing impacts on pedestrian circulation and access to surrounding buildings during construction.
