This U of A building is being demolished and here's what may take its place
If you’ve wandered the University of Alberta (U of A) campus lately, one long-standing building is nothing but piles of bricks right now.
Built in 1957, the U of A Administration Building is currently being torn down, with major demolition work kicking off earlier this summer.
The U of A says plans to study the removal of this asset were included in the 2002 Long Range Development Plan, and the decision to remove the building was included in the North Campus Long Range Development Plan Amendment in 2014.
University of Alberta
The university consulted with neighbouring communities as well as students, faculty and staff across faculties and departments as part of the legislated requirements for these plans under the Post-secondary Learning Act. This decision was then incorporated into Built for Purpose, which brings these plans together in one place.
Laine Mitchell/Daily Hive
Once the building is removed, the site will be backfilled and graded, expanding the open green space at the south end of the university’s Quad. During this period, pedestrians should anticipate detours and the presence of demolition equipment and signage.
If you work or study near the site, the university mentioned that you may experience noise associated with the demolition. Efforts will be made to minimize disruptions during regular business hours, though some disturbance is unavoidable.
Laine Mitchell/Daily Hive
The university added that the Administration Building is being demolished because it has reached the end of its functional life. The cost to maintain or upgrade the facility is no longer a responsible or strategic investment, and the building no longer supports the university’s operational, academic or strategic priorities under the University of Alberta’s Built for Purpose framework.
The estimated cost to abate and demolish the building, which includes grading and restoration of the site and related soft costs, is expected to be approximately $3 million.
Additionally, a planning study has been completed that proposes a concept of how this area could be transformed into a vibrant, inclusive and dynamic outdoor space at some point in the future.
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 being demolished at the moment.
University of Alberta
The U of A added that trees on the campus are “highly valued” and are only removed as a last resort when all other preservation options are unsuitable, or the tree itself is no longer healthy. University trees are assessed for removal or trimming if they have been deemed unhealthy, are in poor condition or pose a safety risk.
Do you have fond memories of the University of Alberta Administration Building? Let us know in the comments.