5.3 A MASTER PLAN FRAMEWORK

5.3.1 GRANDE PRAIRIE CAMPUS STRUCTURE

Public Realm

The importance of the Public Realm is based on the stabilizing continuity it has on campus development and quality over time. A well designed, clearly defined, and continuous public realm organizes development and allows expansion, that does not compromise the quality of the campus in the long term.

The public realm can be defined as the spaces in between buildings, such as plazas, courtyards, and walkways that are accessible to everyone.

The public realm diagram for the Grande Prairie campus includes a buffer on the perimeter of the site and acknowledges the open space fronting the reservoir. The public realm also reinforces connections across campus and provides an area of buffer around future development.

Paths

The modifications to the path network include extending and reinforcing the connection to the existing trades buildings. This can be done by creating a new north-south connector for pedestrians. Paths should provide direct connection between major destinations on campus. A new east-west for vehicular and pedestrian movement should be created for better accessibility onto campus. Pathways should be well-marked, and campus safety and security should be a top priority with measures such as adequate lighting and maintaining clear sightlines along trails/ paths.

Nodes and Landmarks

The existing spaces in the Cardinal building act as major nodes on campus and play a vital role in the student experience and campus life. These spaces include:

• Theatre

• Learning commons

• Cafeteria

There are a series of existing minor nodes and landmarks across the campus, and can be defined as artwork/ sculptures, wayfinding, and gathering places within other buildings.

New landmarks and nodes should be introduced to strengthen student experience across the campus. This can be done by:

• Creating minor nodes along the trail system

• Designing new nodes within or around new development

• Creating a node in the L or M wing

• Adding signage around entries to act as landmarks to help with clear wayfinding

Edges

The edges experienced on campus are at the perimeter of the site as well as along the road that bisects campus. The Cardinal building also forms a continuous edge against the natural area and parking.

Districts

Districts are areas of similar character. The following districts have been identified:

District 1: Academic

District 2: Open Space

District 3: Academic/ Community Support

District 4: Campus Services

District 5: Housing

District 6: Athletics

District 7: Future Development

District 8: Academic Support

5.3.2 FAIRVIEW CAMPUS STRUCTURE

Similar to the Grande Prairie campus, the Fairview public realm diagram includes a buffer around the perimeter of the site, as well as the area that is central to campus. This helps to reinforce the green spine that runs through the campus and allows for natural extension of pathways and connections between buildings.

Paths

The pathways running north-south are problematic due to the current buildings on campus. It is recommended to enhance and create a pedestrian spine that could run from 98 Avenue to 95 Avenue, allowing pedestrians to travel on a direct path across campus. The eastwest connection is currently well-defined.

Nodes and Landmarks

The node and landmark structure are not as defined on this campus. However, there are existing elements that play a vital role in the campus experience.

Existing nodes include the atrium space, Notley Square and the library. Existing landmarks can be defined as the campus signage upon entering the campus, as well as the Hawker pavilion which is used by the community.

There are opportunities to enhance the campus by introducing new nodes and landmarks at entry points/ signage elements on buildings. The creation of new or enhanced student gathering space can also be done. Showcasing academic programs can be another way to enhance quality and help with wayfinding across campus.

Edges

The edges of the campus form the boundary of the site along 113 Street and 100 Avenue.

Districts

There are eight districts identified for the Fairview campus.

District 1: Future Development

District 2: *Community

District 3: Admin/ Academic

District 4: Future Development

District 5: Housing

District 6: *Community

District 7: Campus Services

District 8: Farmland

*Community Districts – Although these amenities are not directly run by NWP, they are still active districts that complement and enhance the campus overall.