The Beach at UNO Pedestrian Improvements
About the Project
RNGD’s commitment to innovation and community enhancement shines through UNO’s Pedestrian Improvement Project. Situated at The Beach at UNO, New Orleans’ only research park, this 30-acre campus along Lake Pontchartrain is home to six unique buildings that house both public and non-profit enterprises partnered with the University of New Orleans (UNO).
Enhancing community connectivity at UNO
For years, a three-acre green space between the buildings remained underutilized. To foster a more connected, pedestrian-friendly environment, RNGD was selected by UNO’s Research & Technology Foundation to revitalize the space. The project included new sidewalks, improved lighting, landscaping, and an outdoor lounge where tenants can collaborate, socialize, or work in a refreshing environment. More importantly, the project’s larger goal would see a revived and enhanced area surrounding the historic Milneburg Lighthouse, transforming it into a relaxing and engaging environment for the surrounding neighborhood.
New amenities create new opportunities
Work began in April 2024 with the project’s centerpiece: a 40,000-SF outdoor lounge space with two raised oval planter seating areas surrounding two stately oak trees. To construct this platform, the RNGD team installed PVC decking to provide a durable, weather-resistant area, complete with ADA access ramps, stairs, and electrical outlets for outdoor work use. Lighting was also enhanced with new light poles, lighted bollards, and a new main electrical rack. Outdoor WiFi connectivity was improved with a wireless access point extender that ties in from the adjacent buildings, ensuring visitors can enjoy the space and remain connected. Working with Mullins Landscaping, external beautification elements included new sod and landscaping, along with walkways to connect the site’s key buildings. RNGD’s Steel Team also installed a new 13’x 20’ steel canopy over an adjacent building, creating a shaded outdoor area with brick pavers and benches for gathering. In a thoughtful update for visiting food trucks, new utility outlets were also installed, making the site more accessible for vendors. Upgraded site drainage also addressed persistent flooding issues, keeping the area functional even after heavy rains.
Cultivating possibilities one project at a time
For RNGD, community is at the heart of every project, and the UNO Pedestrian Improvement Project is a testament to our dedication to local institutions. This newly enhanced outdoor space not only benefits students and tenants, it enhances the broader community with an inviting space for events, recreation, and collaboration. Through our work, RNGD strives to build lasting relationships with clients and trade partners, approaching each project with a “team-first” mentality. Completed in September 2024, RNGD established itself as a trusted partner for UNO’s Research & Technology Foundation as it continues its mission to create opportunities that benefit both UNO’s programs and the Greater New Orleans region.
The Sydney & Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden at NOMA
Reshaping the shoreline created an amphitheater within the reclaimed lagoon.
