The graceful steel “Chinook Arch” was originally part of a pedestrian bridge that went over Crowchild Trail until the Trail was widened in 1986. At that time the walkway was removed, and the arch was moved to University Drive to form the southern gateway to the University, an elegant and iconic sculpture. The design earned the status of “runner up” at the Montreal Expo in 1967.
The work is an open and welcoming structure. It is meant to embody the University of Calgary’s stance on post-secondary education: all are welcome to come and be a part of the U of C’s community. It also represents the welcome warm air which defrosts Calgary in the winter. The installation was seen as a break with the university tradition of gates surrounding campus.
During the commemorating ceremonies, a time capsule was buried at the East Abutment of the Arch. Its contents are unknown, and it is scheduled to be unearthed on the 100th anniversary of the Arch’s relocation (September 25th, 2086).