Garden Storage
Sheds that hold gardening equipment or maintenance supplies may be used on CPS sites. When cost allows for these storage areas, the design shall harmonize with the school’s exterior architectural finishes and site furnishing finishes. Schools shall provide lockable security measures to safeguard these structures during off-school hours. Storage containers, though not preferred, may be used in lieu of new sheds due to budget constraints. Containers must be installed on a concrete pad.
Mechanical Enclosures
Heating / cooling units, transformers, and other site or building utilities are often required in outdoor CPS spaces. When needed, these utility structures shall be situated on a designated 8-inch-thick concrete pad and discreetly located to prevent interruption of the site for users. Noise pollution from these utilities shall not exceed a volume of 70 dB at 10 feet or more from the source, or 55 dB at 100 feet or more from the source. Adherence to the City of Chicago Noise Ordinance requirements to be met for a maximum of 80 dB at the property line. Additional acoustic mitigation may be recommended depending on the type and intensity of noise emitted. Sizing of concrete around utility structure and necessary clearances shall follow requirements of local utility codes. The area shall allow for maintenance access, either by providing a pedestrian route or vehicular access. When the utility must be sited near user spaces, screening will be required either through vegetation or fencing. Refer to Volume 3 Sections 1.8 Landscaping and 1.9 Site Safety & Security for additional information.
Trash Enclosures
Dumpsters and other waste receptacles are necessary site elements that require both vehicular and pedestrian access for ease of use. Enclosures shall meet standard loading recommendations for a typical garbage truck. These areas shall be located near the kitchen, away from main student entrances, play areas or outdoor classrooms, and hidden from the street. Enclosures consist of a masonry wall enclosure with an opaque chain link gate. Enclosures shall be screened with a landscape buffer and follow all other requirements set forth in the Chicago Landscape Ordinance. 6-foot-tall chain link trash enclosures with privacy screening may be used in lieu of masonry only when the facility is existing and masonry cannot be accommodated. All new construction shall include a masonry enclosure. Enclosure areas shall be sized based on the number of receptacles needed by the type of interior kitchen and expected volume.
See below for general guidelines:
- High Schools
High schools typically require at least four 8-yard standard dumpsters. One of these shall be a designated recycling container. - Elementary Schools
Elementary schools typically require at least three 8-yard standard dumpsters. One of these shall be a designated recycling container. - Compactors
In some cases, a compactor will be needed based on school volume. If included the compactor would replace 1 8-yard dumpster. Additionally, a compactor necessitates a taller enclosure and closer proximity to the building.
Refer to Volume 3 - 1.8 Landscaping and 3.5 Operations for more information on the dock, recycling, and compactor enclosure requirements.
(See Figure 1.3.7_1)