The University of New Orleans (UNO) is gearing up for a remarkable transformation. A major overhaul of the university’s infrastructure has been green-lit by state authorities. In the past, the university was even unable to host NCAA Division I events due to the lack of infrastructure. However, the times have changed as UNO unveiled its ambitious $19 million plans for a cutting-edge hospitality facility and a state-of-the-art track and field stadium.

These exciting capital projects were given the green light by the Louisiana legislature and Governor John Bel Edwards last month, cementing UNO’s commitment to academic excellence and athletic prowess. From the $19 million, $13 million is set to be allocated to a track and field stadium and $6 million will be provided for a new hospitality facility.

UNO’s exciting track and hospitality projects

The University of New Orleans’ transformation includes a $13 million track and field stadium, poised to be a game-changer for the university’s athletic program and the local community. Once completed, the stadium will be visible at the corner of Leon C. Simon Boulevard and Elysian Fields Avenue. It has the potential to be a state-of-the-art facility. A number of additions, including a soccer-size field, a 9-lane track, and even a press box, will become a part of the multi-million dollar stadium. According to a New Orleans City Business report, Jeannine O’Rourke, the university’s Interim President claimed, “These projects will enhance the student experience and further elevate the University’s stature as a true community asset.”

UNO’S new track and field facility will also enable the university to start hosting the NCAA Division I track and field events. In the past, due to a lack of infrastructure, the university was unable to host such competitions. This new stadium will also help in promoting fitness and community engagement locally. These goals will be achieved as the new project will be made available to New Orleans high school meets and New Orleans Recreation Development Commission meets as well. Another highlight of the project is the construction of a remarkable $6 million hospitality facility. This new facility is set to become the pride of UNO’s Lester E. Kabacoff School of Hotel, Restaurant, and Tourism Administration.

The new hospitality facility will include high-end features and equipment like a multi-purpose dining room, a demonstration lab, a production kitchen and even an inviting exterior patio. With all these new additions, the UNO is set to provide a launching pad of better opportunities for all its pupils. However, earlier this year, the university was part of a controversial baseball game that proved quite costly for an umpire.

UNO’s controversial baseball game

Back in March, in a game between Mississippi Valley State and the University of New Orleans, a controversial strike-three call made by a Southland Conference umpire resulted in his indefinite suspension. The controversial call occurred in the top of the ninth inning, with two outs on the board, and Davon Mims at the plate for Mississippi Valley State. He was thrown a pitch that seemed to veer far outside the strike zone, earning an inexplicable strike-two call from the umpire. The subsequent 1-2 pitch sailed into the opposite batter’s box, a clear indication of a ball, not a strike. However, to everyone’s disbelief, the umpire declared it a strike-three, signaling the end of the game. In response to the uproar, the Southland Conference took swift action and announced the indefinite suspension of the home plate umpire. 

Read more: US Track and Field Stars Trayvon Bromell and Abby Steiner’s Surgery Highlights Injuries Hampering the Season

The new hospitality facility is scheduled to begin construction in the second year of the state’s 2023-24 budget. As a priority five capital outlay project, the track and field stadium awaits future funding from state lawmakers to turn this vision into a reality. These new facilities will be a major boost for UNO and the city of New Orleans. It will help UNO in solidifying its commitment to academic excellence, athletic achievements, and community development for years to come.

Watch this story: Track and Field Community Gathers to Support Sha’Carri Richardson’s Outrage on USATF’s Meagre $8,000 Prize Money