During the first week of classes for the fall semester, The University of Toledo will commemorate the end of the Centennial Mall enhancement project at the President’s Backyard Barbecue.

UToledo President Gregory Postel will speak at the ribbon-cutting ceremony 11 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 31, at the center of Centennial Mall, which features all new sidewalks to improve both the student experience and create a greener, more eco-friendly campus.

“The improvements have helped restore Centennial Mall to its original beauty,” said Jason Toth, senior associate vice president for administration.

The President’s Backyard Barbecue is from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Centennial Mall on Main Campus and at the patio outside of Four Seasons Bistro on Health Science Campus. All UToledo students, faculty and staff are invited to the event that includes free food, outdoor games and activities, and giveaways including Beats Studio Buds, Amazon Echo Dots, TVs and gift cards.

“This year’s President’s Backyard BBQ promises to be a blast. We’re excited we get to show students, faculty and staff just how special and appreciated they are as we begin our semester,” said Dr. Pamela Rogers, director of Upward Bound and Upward Bound Math Science and committee chair for the event.

Over the summer, construction crews replaced deteriorated sidewalks to improve safety and altered some concrete pathways to help students, faculty and staff navigate Main Campus.

The campus community also can enjoy new planting beds at Memorial Field House and additional seating and congregating space at Brunner Garden on the south side of University Hall.

The improvements also improve stormwater management and water drainage on campus.