May 29, 2003
Mary Gates landscape project under way
A very visible part of campus will get a new look when a landscaping project now under way is completed. The work began last week in the landscape to the west and south of Mary Gates Hall and east and south of Johnson Hall.
“When Mary Gates was renovated there wasn’t enough money to complete the landscaping,” explained campus landscape architect Bill Talley. “But the Campus Landscape Advisory Committee made it a high priority because of its location on Rainier Vista.”
As a result, when the University received renewal funds from the state, the Mary Gates project was placed on the list for part of the money.
Pacific Earthworks, a private contractor, has been hired to do the work, which includes a new irrigation system to conserve water. The laurel hedge that fronts Rainier Vista is being removed in favor of a smaller osmanthus hedge that will be kept trimmed to 3 to 4 feet.
“We’ve had some security problems because of the height of the laurel hedge,” Talley said. “With the new hedge, people will be able to see into the landscape.”
The work will also include weeding and removing invasive species such as English ivy, Ailanthus and holly and replacing them with native plants.
The project’s budget is $190,000. An additional $75,000 will go to a similar irrigation system for the lawn between the Music Building and Clark Hall. The Mary Gates work is scheduled for completion by Aug. 1.
