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Merit - SCUP Excellence in Landscape for Open Space Planning

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Virginia Tech Infinite Loop and Green Links
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University - Virginia Tech Infinite Loop and Green Links
Jury Comments
“. . . excellent approach to bringing universal access to the forefront of design . . . materials clearly articulate the design challenge . . . wonderful to see an institution invest in such a comprehensive study of an important campus system . . .”

Highlights

    • Infinite Loop – 2.1 miles; Green Links – 3.5 miles
    • These projects touch almost every square foot of Virginia Tech’s core campus.
    • Autonomous vehicle routes are included.
    • Over 400 stairs are removed from the existing campus and are replaced with ADA-compliant pathways
    • Both projects respect and maintain VT’s Collegiate Gothic architectural character and landscape.

Perspectives

The Infinite Loop and Green Links are a response to the campus’s location in the Appalachian Mountains. These projects catalogue Virginia Tech’s vast network of non-compliant pathways, stairs, and missing links that have not been upgraded since the Americans with Disabilities Act was ratified over 30 years ago. The Infinite Loop and Green Links provide Virginia Tech with a detailed concept design for over 5 miles of campus pathways and open spaces that consider a core campus constituent, the disabled community. In addition, outdoor classrooms, enhanced campus quads, and large natural areas like the enhanced Duck Pond landscape provide greater access to green spaces that can be used for working or relaxing outdoors, promoting mental health and well-being.

Project Team

Sasaki; HG Design Studio; Accessibility Consultants, Inc.