“ Enhancing the public realm between buildings was already on our mind , but the pandemic emphasized the importance of really maximizing our outdoor space — not only with regard to the virus but just for general health and well-being .”
— ROB CLOSSIN ’ 95
the trolley will offer a safe , reliable and inexpensive alternative to driving once it begins running — now slated for operation in late 2021 .
“ There will be more work to do even after it opens ,” says Clossin . “ It ’ s important to restore the area as a canyon — canyons are a part of San Diego , and they should be included in the amenities of the space we ’ re making . So we will replant trees and natural vegetation , as well as put in pathways and lighting to make it active , but still a canyon . We ’ re even looking into the feasibility of a trail network throughout campus — in the open space north of Geisel Library and through the historic eucalyptus groves that wind throughout the grounds .”
↑ THE DESIGN AND INNOVATION BUILDING was deliberately placed at the Blue Line Station to showcase the enterprising and inventive spirit of UC San Diego . Opening this summer with multidisciplinary labs , studios and maker spaces inside , viewers from the trolley will be able to look in through trackside windows , while the building ’ s open ground floors allow work to flow out into the public realm , putting creativity front and center from the first step on campus .
And from that first step onward , the entire Pepper Canyon project continues Alexander ’ s theme of “ precedence of pedestrian movement over the automobile ,” as improvements to Rupertus Lane will create a main east – west pedestrian corridor . The new Rupertus Walk will not only integrate a new Stuart Collection piece but will eventually lead to the forthcoming Triton Pavilion and on toward Library Walk and finally Ridge Walk , connecting the westernmost college neighborhoods .
What kind of campus evolution did you see in your time here ? Share your stories and photos with us at : tritonmag @ ucsd . edu
P L A N EVOLUTION
The Long Range Development Plan for UC San Diego has seen several updates and iterations since the ’ 60s . In a retrospective book , former director of physical planning Patricia Aguilar describes the plans as “ Not a set of arbitrary ideas generated by the campus ’ most recent crew of master planners ,” but “ a rebirth of the original vision of the campus , modified by the evolution in campus values that has occurred since .” And over time , it has become a way of assuring that the “ physical environment will truly reflect the values , aspirations and academic ideals of the institution it houses .” You can view campus plans through the years and learn more at : tritonmag . com / plan
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