MacEwan University LID Project – Edmonton, Alberta

MacEwan University Low Impact Development (LID) Project

GS Construction was awarded the MacEwan University Low Impact Development (LID) Project under the EPCOR LID Master Service Agreement, delivering stormwater infrastructure designed to capture and manage runoff directly within the University campus. The project targets runoff reduction through the construction of bioretention basins and absorbent landscape features, reducing the volume of stormwater entering the municipal collection system.

Construction commenced in fall 2024, with initial earthworks, underground infrastructure, and coordination activities completed prior to a planned winter shutdown. Work resumed in spring 2025, with final construction, landscaping, and restoration completed under live campus conditions. The phased delivery required careful remobilization and sequencing to maintain pedestrian access and minimize disruption during active academic sessions.

As the General Contractor, GS Construction was responsible for site preparation, excavation, and installation of the underground drainage infrastructure supporting the LID facilities. This included installation of underdrain and distribution piping, barrel cleanouts, overflow catch basins, and maintenance holes connecting into the existing storm system. The work was completed across four distinct locations within the MacEwan University property, each with unique grading, utility, and access constraints.

The project was delivered in close coordination with MacEwan University, EPCOR, the City of Edmonton, and adjacent stakeholders, including the West Valley LRT project team. Strict tree protection measures, traffic and pedestrian accommodations, and erosion and sediment controls were maintained throughout construction. Landscaping, soil media, drainage rock, and planting were completed in collaboration with specialized subcontractors to meet performance and warranty requirements.

This project reflects GS Construction’s ability to deliver LID and underground drainage infrastructure in dense, high-traffic urban environments, while managing phased construction schedules, environmental requirements, and complex stakeholder coordination.

MacEwan University LID – Project Highlights

Project Type:

• Low Impact Development (LID) stormwater infrastructure

Locations:

• Four (4) LID facilities constructed across the MacEwan University campus
• Sites located along 104 Avenue, 112 Street, 109 Street, and 105 Street

LID Infrastructure Installed:

• Three bioretention basins
• One absorbent landscape area
• Underdrain and distribution piping systems
• Overflow catch basins and barrel cleanouts
• Maintenance holes connected to existing storm infrastructure

Stormwater Performance:

• Designed to capture and treat runoff from streets, parking areas, and landscaped surfaces
• Reduces peak flows entering the municipal storm system

Construction Environment:

• Active university campus
• Continuous pedestrian access maintained
• Coordinated alongside ongoing West Valley LRT construction

Delivery Approach:

• Fall 2024 construction with winter shutdown
• Spring 2025 remobilization and completion
• High coordination with EPCOR, MacEwan University, City of Edmonton, and project partners