College of Architecture and Environmental Design

Help Restart Poly Canyon’s Caretaker Program

Poly Canyon epitomizes Cal Poly’s philosophy: Learn by Doing.

Conceived as an Experimental Practices Laboratory by the founding dean of the CAED, George Hasslein, the scenic hills off Poly Canyon Road have facilitated and showcased students’ triumphant structures for generations.

However, over the years, the preservation and upkeep of Poly Canyon have been challenging. Without the student caretaker program — which provided college presence and routine maintenance — the Canyon has been vulnerable to vandalism and waste.

“I believe Glen Jackson [the first caretaker of the canyon] living there helped preserve it,” said Robert Purdy, construction management alumnus behind the Techite Bridge. “So, having somebody living there will help reduce the amount of vandalism happening right now.”

Thanks to a generous initial donation, the CAED aims to reinstate the Poly Canyon caretaker program and foster a vibrant environment for student activities, competitions and studio work.

“The whole purpose of the caretaker program is to preserve what’s there and also provide an environment where our current students can express themselves and build things,” Purdy said. “It’s a really special place and worth preserving and perpetuating.”

To support this project, consider giving to the Poly Canyon fund!

Visit us at caed.calpoly.edu