SLO Botanical Garden Lean-To Carport

This paper documents the planning, design, funding, and construction of a lean-to carport for the San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden, completed as a student-led Construction Management senior project by Saul Gracian and Sergio Gonzalez. The purpose of the project was to provide a functional storage structure for garden equipment while applying construction management principles in a real-world, nonprofit setting. The project methodology included site evaluation, collaborative design development, cost estimating, funding acquisition, regulatory review, and hands-on construction. Design decisions were informed by site constraints, county code requirements, budget limitations, and stakeholder input, resulting in a final 10’ x 12’ structure that balanced functionality, constructability, and cost. Key findings highlighted the importance of early planning, transparent communication with stakeholders, and adaptability when responding to permitting and funding constraints. The project concluded with the successful delivery of a durable and practical structure while reinforcing the value of experiential learning, community engagement, and effective construction management practices.