Current Challenges

Participants shared a desire for better Main Quad gathering spaces and made observations that some of the walkways and corridors leading into the main Quad are underutilized. Students expressed need for access to power outlets and Wi-Fi hubs to support their work.

Additionally, planting new trees, filling hedge gaps, and adding ground cover can restore historic design, improve rainwater absorption, and enhance views of Foellinger Auditorium and the Illini Union.

Prototype Project Implementation

In the case of the Main Quad District, the prototype project extent aligns with that of the district itself. Therefore, the following recommendations provide additional detail to the district strategies. These recommendations add detail to district strategies, supporting the restoration of this cherished campus space while reinforcing the commitment to resilience at the campus core.

Centennial Court’s restoration will update its 1969 design with new paving, lighting, and trees, maintaining its event plaza function, pending approval.

Anniversary Plaza’s restoration will preserve its design while adding an amphitheater, arc with a water feature, and an underground cistern for improved functionality and sustainability.

Three Main Quad courtyards will be redesigned: one for bike parking and seating, another with a water feature honoring donors, and the third with study tables, Wi-Fi, power, shade trees, and hammock posts.

iCAP Goal Contribution

• Reduces impervious surfaces by
  approximately 130,000 square feet (sq. ft.).
• Treats a total water volume of 3.87 acre
  feet.
• Reduces potable water consumption by capturing and recycling rainwater with a 2,800 sq. ft. (4’ depth) cistern.
• Reduces turf by 32,350 sq. ft.

Sustainable Main Quad Improvements

Main Quad planting will preserve its historic design, use resilient trees, and add native groundcover. Immediate improvements include restoring yew hedges, removing obstructing trees, and enhancing soil for better durability and rainwater management.

The Main Quad’s lighting will be updated with dark sky-compliant LEDs, new poles with self-watering baskets for seasonal interest, and upgraded Wi-Fi fixtures, all designed to accommodate irrigation lines.

The Main Quad’s surrounding areas will also feature permeable paving, covered bike parking, and event space, with Nevada Street developed as a pedestrian gateway connecting the cultural houses to the campus core.

The Main Quad should be prioritized for maintenance as it plays a key role in the university’s image and donor connections. Recommended strategies include installing a smart irrigation system with weather stations for efficient watering, adding permeable pavers along walkways and courtyards to enhance rainwater infiltration and groundwater recharge, and transitioning the turf from Kentucky Bluegrass to tall fescue for reduced maintenance, improved drought resistance, and better soil health. This turf shift will be phased, beginning with the north turf panel in year one, while continuing irrigation across all Quad spaces.