This spring, Facilities is installing nine additional shade canopies at the University Child Care Center at Mission Bay.
When the child care was built in 2017, it included only a few umbrellas and shade canopies.
"During the hot, windy summers at Mission Bay, the playground often gets quite warm," Facilities Senior Project Manager, Ashley Hinton, said.
The new canopies, which range in size from 16 to to 20 feet, will be installed around the playground, providing ample shade over sand boxes, slides, and play equipment during warmer months.
The project is moving forward is occurring in three phases, and is set to be completed in July 2026.
Children at the University Child Care Center observe the construction.
"This is a robust project that involves drilling thirteen 9-foot deep holes in the play yard, infilling with rebar and concrete, and mounting custom-built steel canopies," Hinton said.
Hinton noted that teams from across Campus Life Services have come together to make this project happen.
"Facilities Projects led design, construction, and internal coordination. The child care center [run through Family Services] has been an integral partner throughout the design and installation process, and remains operational during construction. Trades, Engineering, and Grounds continue to provide problem solving and support."
Nathalie Larsen, Director of Family Services, is grateful for the installation, which began just in time for National Playground Safety Week.
"The additional shade structures on the playgrounds will provide important health, safety, and comfort benefits that support both active play and overall well-being. The canopies will help keep the playground equipment and surfaces cooler, making the space more usable during our warmer days at Mission Bay," Larsen said.
"Beyond physical health, shade can create a more inviting and comfortable environment that encourages longer, more inclusive play, supporting social interaction, focus, and positive outdoor experiences," Larsen said.
New canopies will add to the shade coverage of existing canopies (above).