Inspired by the design creations of students in NAIT's Landscaping Architectural Technology program, the design combines environmental sustainability and aesthetics.

The design is being implemented by Greentree Eco-friendly Landscaping, and includes replacing a number of Aspen and Spruce trees, initiating a drip irrigation system to deliver optimal amounts of water to the plantings and using natural stone pavers, which last longer and emit five times less CO2 than the concrete alternative.

As they began the project, Greentree found that a number of the aspen trees were failing – they had simply exceeded their life span. The expected life expectancy of an aspen tree in an urban setting is no more than 20 years. These aspens were planted in 1976. Some were worse than others, but many trees were dying from the inside out. The unpredictable winter we experienced last year caused several spruce trees on the Kingsway property to die due to winterkill – where roots lose their ability to absorb water.

While it is unfortunate to have to remove trees, Kingsway is excited to rejuvenate the property with a selection of Flowering Crab Apple, Blue Spruce, Linden and Maple trees, which have a 75-100 year lifespan and are better-suited to the location.

In its ongoing dedication to being "green", any tree trunks, branches, sod and roots that are removed will be composted for re-use. Any concrete and plastic removed from the site will be recycled.