The newly renovated staircase outside Derring Hall improves the appearance, function, and safety of one of the most heavily trafficked areas on campus.

In addition to an entirely new look, the project created additional common spaces for active and passive recreation. Plus, there's intentional space for collaboration and engagement. 

The steps carry thousands of pedestrians from the Derring Lot up to the Cowgill Hall Plaza and Johnston Student Center.

The plaza areas near Derring Hall and Johnston Student Center have been developed into public spaces. Wooden trimmed benches have been incorporated beside the steps and additional seating has been added at the terraces flanking the stair landings.

Numerous landscape planters and trees now provide shade and beautiful scenery. Electrical outlets and Wi-Fi access have been added encouraging students to interact in more meaningful ways outside the classroom.

This project is part of a comprehensive effort to improve connectivity from the new North Academic Precinct to the existing academic core of the campus.

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