Construction has already begun on the UBC Okanagan’s future downtown campus, a 43-storey tower that will rise over Kelowna by 2027.
With work underway, the school is already gushing about the first piece of the puzzle, which is a record-breaking four-storey underground parkade.
Once complete, it will be the deepest in the Kelowna area, and UBCO says that’s thanks to its innovative “tanked” design that will use a special waterproof concrete mix to accommodate the city’s high water table.
The design will keep the water and soils in place, ensuring hydrostatic pressure balance, rather than the conventional method that sees water accumulation around the foundation drained or pumped away.
“UBCO's downtown expansion is about far more than just physical growth. It's about integrating our institution's commitment to research, innovation and education into the heart of Kelowna's urban landscape," says Dr. Lesley Cormack, UBCO’s principal and deputy vice-chancellor.
"This tanked parking garage is a prime example of our innovative approach, demonstrating how we are rising to meet the unique challenges our city presents."
Fill extracted during the parkade’s construction will be transported to UBCO’s main campus to provide material for slope stabilization and aiding in the area’s future utilization.
UBCO says it’s an example of the school’s commitment to sustainability, minimizing waste generation and saving on future trucking emissions.
“This move exemplifies our dedication to minimizing waste and optimizing resources during the construction process," adds Rob Einarson, associate vice-president for finance and operations at UBCO. "It's a testament to our commitment to sustainability and our responsibility as a steward of the environment."
Einarson says the underground parkade is one of several sustainability aspects considered with the downtown project.
Other examples include housing within the building to cut down on commutes, as well as proximity to bike lanes and direct mass transit routes.
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