The MSU student center plaza is a crucial space for student life on campus. It appears to be underutilized due to its accessibility limitations for pedestrians from the north, limited building access from the east and west, and no pedestrian access to remaining parts of the campus to the south. The plaza was designed in 1980 and subsequently built.

THE OPPORTUNITY

Montclair State University (MSU) requested PS&S to assess the condition of the plaza and its waterproofing system, and provide recommendations for repairs and / or replacement for these systems. We have noted conditions of the existing plaza and the adjacent building components directly associated with the plaza. Services performed involved a site visit to perform visual inspections of the existing conditions, report a summary of our findings, prepare a cost estimate (immediate, short and long-term options), and recommendations for the immediate, short term, and long-term conditions to maintain and improve the plaza. Suggestions for future improvements were provided for consideration.

THE CHALLENGE

Assess the conditions of plaza waterproofing systems, its details, and other influencing system or features adjacent to the plaza that may be adding to its state of disrepair.

THE PS&S SOLUTION

A field inspection was performed with MSU staff to understand the existing conditions, the challenges MSU has had over the past 30 years with the use, function, and maintenance of the plaza waterproofing system. Existing documents were obtained from MSU to facilitate an assessment of the original design intent vs. the existing conditions. A report of our findings was prepared and outlined immediate, short, and long-term needs and improvements to the plaza for the narrative and cost estimate. The assessment was organized into system categories to easily understand and explain the conditions and problems that exist. The cost estimate was developed based on historical data and input from industry professionals and contractors. A final report was issued to MSU, which they will use to make decisions for their long-term capital plan.