UMD is nearly finished with its Ordean Court remodel, and the Facilities Management crew is inviting the media to learn more about the project.
Project Manager Eric Freberg is available on Friday, September 6 from 11-11:30 a.m. at the sidewalk outside of Bohanan Hall that overlooks Ordean Court. He’ll talk about the progress and some of the new features that can be found in this focal area of UMD.
“A Campus Jewel”
Ordean Court is surrounded by the Marshall Performing Arts Center, Sports and Health, and the Tweed Museum of Art.
Over the years, its outline has been ebbed by the pathways of generations of Bulldogs. Last spring, Facilities Management decided to redefine Ordean Court– transforming it from a passthrough to a destination.
Vehicle traffic was common in the past, with deliveries and workers pulling right up to buildings. This deteriorated Ordean Court’s pavers and also discouraged students from gathering in the space.
Emergency vehicles will still be able to get through when needed, but other access is now dissuaded through signage.
The conceptual redesign also adds character with curved, custom seatwalls framing greenspace. “We’re creating a lot of outside spaces with wifi hubs for students to study and gather,” says Freberg. “It’s totally student focused– a real campus jewel.”
Sustainability is woven into the new and improved Ordean Court. Stormwater management is handled through an underground rainwater feature, and lighting has been upgraded to LED with dimming capabilities.
Construction Details
The $2 million renovation is funded by Facilities Management. A planning committee included representatives from Student Life and several UMD departments and colleges.
The architect of record is Architecture Advantage of Duluth and the design architect is RDG Planning and Design, Des Moines, IA. The contractor is Northland Constructors.
Construction began in May, 2019 and is expected to be completed by early October, 2019.