Ordean court in hopes to be completed by early October
Ordean Court undergoing construction. Photo by Zack Benz
UMD’s Ordean Court is currently undergoing a major facelift and is expected to be completed by early October.
According to Robert Kase, Dean of the School of Fine Arts, the much needed project will provide the campus with a “pedestrian” centered space for students and patrons to visit, relax and soak in the “majesty of these Art complexes while enjoying a wonderful green space.”
“I am pleased that the Ordean Court is finally receiving the badly needed remodel and redesign that will replace the crumbling and sinking one of the past,” Kase said in a comment.
Facilities Management is anticipating that concrete and asphalt work will be finished by mid Sept. and hope to install light poles and plant trees soon after that.
Construction Workers (From Left) Tony Moselle, Adam Wittrock, Jace Oien, Charlie Mccune, John Engbretson on site in Ordean Court. Photo by Karli Kruse
Eric Freberg, Project Manager for Facilities Management, stated that Facilities Management has been working very closely with the performing arts and other departments affected by the courts closure during construction. They’re also keeping a close eye on performance schedules as well.
“The project, not surprisingly, is a bit behind but we are hopeful it will be completed in time for the opening of the first main stage Theatre production in October, and if not we have alternative entrances via Voss-Kovach Hall,” Dean Kase said in a statement.
Kase also stated that preparations have also been made for other alternative routes and entrances if the need arises.
“Alternative entrances for the Tweed Museum are available via the Solon Entrance, and Weber Hall via the South entrance on the lower level as well as through Sports and Rec Center,” Kase said. “We look forward to having the Ordean Court completed soon. In the meantime, we enjoy watching the daily progress as we continue our artistic endeavors at UMD.”
The purpose for this remodel was to provide additional green space to the campus community to utilize and enjoy.
“The existing courtyard was not very utilized and we are hoping the new design gives people a place to get outside and enjoy the nice weather while they can,” Freberg said. “We are also hoping the new space gives people a place to gather before and after activities in [the Marshal Performing Arts Center], Weber and [the Sports and Health Center].”
According to Facilities Management, some landscaping may need to be held off until early spring depending on if Duluth experiences an early winter.