The groundwork for UniverCity was laid in 1963, when Arthur Erickson and Geoff Massey submitted their initial plan for Simon Fraser University.

The OCP original concept included provisions for community facilities such as a school, commercial core, prominent pedestrian paths and biking trails all along campus.

It identified two specific aims of constructing UniverCity; to establish a more inclusive community on the mountain with varying options of housing and amenities, as well as to create an Endowment Fund to assist in further teaching and research for the campus.

[1] In 2003, Simon Fraser University commenced construction on a new residential and commercial area occupying approximately 200 acres (0.81 km2) adjacent to the campus, atop Burnaby Mountain, called UniverCity.

Gordon Harris, FCIP[4] is the President and CEO of SFU Community Trust, the organization that oversees development of UniverCity.