Great Lake Photo by Wade Bruton
Look closely and you can see one of UNC Charlotte’s beloved geese enjoying a cruise on one of its favorite sunning spots. Hechenbleikner Lake is re-opened and better than ever. Several years ago, Peter Franz, landscape architect, pitched the concept of making Hechenbleikner Lake a more “pedestrian friendly” venue; however, funds were not available at that time. Fast forward to 2009 when the lake’s underground overflow pipe was caving in, forcing the lake water to find its own path downstream. Broadrick Boulevard by the lake was in potential danger of collapse and needed immediate attention. In December 2011, the University received conditional permission to completely de-water the lake for construction. Before draining the lake, a firm specializing in wildlife relocation carefully moved all of the fish, turtles and other inhabitants to Davis Lake, beside Memorial Hall. Grass was planted inside the drained lake, preventing soil erosion during the new piping installation and relandscaping process. During the two-year rehab, Franz, along with others including Ken Lambla, dean of the College of Arts + Architecture, worked to integrate several pedestrian features, including a new brick sidewalk, benches and a platform overlooking the area. Now, not just geese enjoy visiting Hechenbleikner Lake. www.UNCC.edu
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UNC CHARLOTTE magazine 21