The University of Guelph was established as an agricultural college nearly 140 years ago. Since then it has evolved into a comprehensive university and one of Canada’s largest research institutions. Despite the growth of the University and surrounding City of Guelph, the campus has retained its rural character and supports a closely-knit campus community. Many of the campus settings, including Johnston Green and the renowned Guelph Arboretum, recall this heritage while supporting modern research and teaching.  Urban Strategies Inc. was retained by the University to lead a Campus Master Plan Update re-examining the University’s planning framework and defining directions for physical change in support of the university’s far-reaching academic goals. The Campus Master Plan Update prioritizes the renewal of existing places and facilities. The quality of the heart of the campus is extended to the campus edges to improve arrival, circulation and way-finding while strengthening the physical relationships to the city. A number of new “iconic greens” are proposed as the focus for development and Gordon Street has been reinforced as a key campus gateway.

University of Guelph Campus Master Plan

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