Permeable
The Loyola University has been advancing sustainability practices across the university for decades and has many accomplishments including 10 LEED certified buildings. Their commitment to sustainability is reflected in their campus, curriculum and culture. As part of this initiative they have been recognized as a leader in water conservation, diverting 18 million gallons of rainwater from the Chicago sewers. Permeable pavers are an integral component throughout the campus.
In addition to expanding its Lake Shore campus and replacing a city street with a wide concrete paver shared-use plaza, the university has also renovated its West Quad, making it a more leveled and playable space for sports. Pathways were created around the quad using unit pavers and permeable paving, allowing easy pedestrian access to several campus buildings, including the Cudahy Science Hall, Halas Sports Center and a parking lot.
Unilock’s Promenade Plank Paver and Eco-Priora were used in multiple colors to create the pathways and accentuate building entrances with the paving design. Permeable path systems are found throughout the campus, along the St Ignatius Plaza, East Quad and CTA Station. This eliminated the need for underground storage tanks and resolved existing water issues, as rainwater naturally filters back into the ground. This change from impervious asphalt to permeable paving aligns with the campus’ sustainable initiative and student experience.