The Beach at UNO Pedestrian Improvements
Size of Project
40,000 SF
Overview
Enhancing community connectivity at UNO
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). 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 includes 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
Starting in April 2024, work began with the project’s centerpiece: a 40,000 square-foot 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.
A team that’s always ready
At RNGD, challenges are opportunities in disguise. Despite facing delays beyond our control, the team remained proactive throughout the pause. By thoroughly reviewing plans, collaborating with trade partners, and preparing for each phase, our team ensured that no time was wasted. This mindset of proactivity and solution-oriented thinking is deeply ingrained in RNGD’s approach to all projects. The team focused on finding ways to keep the project moving efficiently, ensuring that all issues were anticipated when work resumed and obstacles were met with a swift solution. Our core values inspire us to think big, maintain momentum, and tackle any obstacle with confidence.
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 benefit students and tenants, they enhance 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. With completion slated for September 2024, RNGD aims to establish 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.
