Low Plaza Historic Restoration

What is Happening

This summer, Facilities and Operations will undertake a historic restoration of Low Plaza and the granite steps leading to the plaza from College Walk. These improvements follow the restoration work previously completed to the steps leading from Low Plaza to Low Library.

Purpose and Benefits

The project will address areas of deterioration on the plaza surface and strengthen the substrate below the plaza to better withstand the heavy loads and stress that the plaza endures, while also restoring historic intent among key design elements that have been lost over the years. New paving materials will be historically accurate in appearance and configuration – using Pine Hall historic red brick, Stony Creek granite, and Jura Beige limestone. Similar to the pathway restoration work across campus, the new plaza assemblies are designed with sustainability, durability, and ease of maintenance in mind.

Project Scope

The overall scope of work will include:

• Replacement of all paving materials and substrate
• Removal of all the steps leading to the plaza from College Walk to install new foundations and correct drainage, with granite replacement installed.
• Installation of missing benches along the perimeter
• Installation of dynamic lighting in the fountains and along the plaza

Schedule

Work is beginning on or around June 1 and is anticipated to be complete in September 2026, weather permitting. Work hours will be from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

What to Expect

The following potential impacts are anticipated during the course of the project this summer:

• Low Plaza will be closed during the first phase of the project and is anticipated to partially reopen in early August for the second phase of the project.
• Work will commence on the west end near Dodge Hall and work will move east towards Kent Hall in the second phase.
• One set of stairs by Dodge or Kent between Low Plaza and Upper Campus will remain open throughout the project to provide access to upper campus.
• The disability access elevator at College Walk near Dodge Hall and the pathway adjacent to Alma Mater will remain open throughout the project.
• The northern walkway of College Walk between Dodge and Kent Halls will be closed for materials storage and equipment.
• Traffic on College Walk due to building material deliveries.
• Expect noise as well as other typical impacts associated with construction.