Quadrangle Redux

Steve Pomedli Quad Committee, 0T6

The much-cherished Trinity College Quadrangle is a unique and vibrant space, one that enhances the College and defines its student life. Central to the College, both physically and symbolically, it is a multi-purpose space, used for formal and informal events, gatherings, socials, and enjoyed by students, staff, alumni and those of the larger community. This multifaceted nature makes it a dynamic area that must continually respond to the various demands placed upon it throughout the academic terms and the summer months.

Recently, a donor has come forward with a sizeable donation to the College, earmarked for a renewal of the Quadrangle. This initiative complements the goals of the “Strength to Strength” capital campaign at Trinity, which includes revitalizing some of the central spaces of the College. Provost Margaret MacMillan has created a Quadrangle Committee made up of fellows, alumni, faculty, students and community members, chaired by Lindsay Dale-Harris, a Trinity alumna and urban planner, to oversee the process. The other committee members are: Leontine Ebers, Marc Gotlieb, Bill Greer, Jeff Haylock, Eluned MacMillan, Margaret MacMillan, Steve Pomedli and Larry Richards.

The Committee, which has already met twice in late 2005, as part of its Mission Statement, has stipulated that it intends to improve and renew the Quad by soliciting opinions and advice on how the Quad should be developed from all those who have a stake in the College and, more specifically, in the use of the Quadrangle. Through this consultation with the various interested parties over the coming weeks, the Committee intends to create a set of general principles and a Terms of Reference. These criteria will then be forwarded to select landscape architecture firms who have expressed interest in participating in a limited design competition. Upon selection of a design and finalisation of details, the physical work on the Quadrangle will ideally commence in the late summer of 2006, and be completed by summer 2007.

Students, no doubt, are the primary group with a huge vested interest in the direction in which this Quadrangle rehabilitation will proceed. Being a social hub and focal point throughout the year, it additionally hosts many student events, from matriculation and Lit debates, to parties and frosh week events. The Quad is a space that is dictated by student use. Thus, it is vital that students become involved with this renovation project, voicing their thoughts.

There are many questions that one, as a student, might consider: What do I enjoy about the current Quadrangle? What might improve the effectiveness of the space? What are important aspects of the Quadrangle that perhaps should remain the same? Is there a better way to organize the seating and social areas? Other issues to consider might include the importance/relevance of bicycle storage within the quad, the provision for smoking areas, and perhaps the role of the venerable sundial within the space. There are also many pragmatic concerns involved, such as those regarding quad maintenance and upkeep.

Because the donor for this project will match whatever funds are raised externally, it may be in the student body’s interest to make an investment for the benefit of future student generations. This is an excellent chance for the recently revived Student Capital Campaign fund to reaffirm its commitment to enrich student life, by making a significant and enduring contribution to the student social experience in this manner.

The student involvement in the process, and student opinion regarding this matter are extremely important, and highly valued by the Quadrangle Committee. A recent graduate, Jeff Haylock (0T4) and myself, (Steve Pomedli, 0T6) are members of the committee and are able to provide some insight from a student perspective. However we need and encourage others students to offer additional thoughts, ideas and perspectives. There will be several meetings held in the upcoming weeks: first, a forum as an opportunity for students to inquire, critique and make suggestions regarding this project and the process; and second, a “town-hall” meeting in which anyone from the larger community can participate.

The results of this historic rehabilitation will have a lasting impact on the life of the students and all others involved in the Trinity community for years to come. I urge you to give some thought to this, discuss with fellow students, and please be active and vocal at the appropriate forums – this is a wonderful opportunity for students to help shape Trinity’s future!

For individual ideas or concerns regarding the project contact Steve Pomedli at: sp@trinity.utoronto.ca. A meeting for students to contribute ideas is scheduled for 7:30 PM on Wednesday Jan. 25. Location TBA.