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The South Quad Open Space Planning Study is an exciting initiative aimed at transforming a key location on North Campus into a vibrant, inclusive and dynamic outdoor space that reflects the university's diverse culture and history. 

The proposed redevelopment area would incorporate the current Celebration Plaza and adjacent open spaces near the intersection of 114 Street and 89 Avenue Students’ Boulevard, as well as the south side of the Quad. The south side of the Quad is currently occupied by the Administration Building, which is nearing the end of its lifespan and has been identified for removal.

This planning study presents the university community with a concept of the south side of the Quad without the Administration Building, including its potential purpose, meaning and functions.

Read the South Quad Open Space Planning Study

This area is located on the territory of Indigenous Peoples, land that is now known as part of Treaty 6 and homeland of the Métis. The Â鶹ÊÓƵ respects the sovereignty, lands, histories, languages, knowledge systems and cultures of all First Nations, Métis and Inuit nations. Our study’s work is guided by Braiding Past, Present and Future: Â鶹ÊÓƵ Indigenous Strategic Plan.

North Campus’ form and character is rooted in the original 1912 Campus Master Plan by Percy Nobbs and George Hyde, which envisioned a grand campus in the classic academic tradition. Many of the buildings envisioned in the 1912 plan, such as Pembina Hall (1914) still frame the Quad today. Historical and cultural open space elements that contribute to the university's identity — such as Alumni Walk, Presidents’ Circle, Sweetgrass Bear and the Flame Tower statue — are preserved and integrated into the plan. This includes several heritage trees of diverse species, size and origin, including those native to our Central Parkland Ecoregion. These features will help maintain a connection to the campus' unique heritage, while also allowing for new, inclusive spaces that reflect modern needs and priorities.

The planning study aligns with the university's Long Range Development Plan (2014), the North Campus Open Space Plan (2014), and the 89 Avenue Students’ Boulevard Integrated Transportation Planning Concept, Strategy and Guidelines (2020), which all envision the expansion and enrichment of the open space and circulation routes at South Quad. A key goal will be to create a welcoming campus environment that supports and promotes high-quality student experiences, academic engagement and social interaction, further creating an adaptable community hub that will serve future generations throughout all seasons.

What we heard from you

Online and on-campus engagement activities were held in January 2025 to gather input from the university community, informing the vision and future programming of the South Quad outdoor space. This feedback was used to develop conceptual options, which were shared through online and on-campus engagement activities in March 2025. Input on the conceptual options were used to inform the final planning study.

Read the South Quad Open Space Planning Study What We Heard Report

Planning Study Timeline

• October - December 2024 - Site inventory and analysis; develop engagement materials
• January 2025 - Engagement Round 1: Vision and programming
• January - March 2025 - Compile feedback and develop conceptual options
• March 2025 - Engagement Round 2: Input on conceptual options
• April - October 2025 - Planning study report completion