University of North Dakota Parking Ramp

The selection of precast concrete products for the primary structural framing was made to optimize several of its inherent qualities – durability, versatility, and long clear spans, as well as the local availability of the product. The proximity of Concrete, Inc. to the project site allowed for economical shipping and transportation, convenient off-site storage, as well as local expertise to allow collaborative detailing of the project during the design and the fabrication process. There was also a record of local construction costs for all-precast parking ramps, so the owner and designers were comfortable using these costs to help establish the budget during design. These, coupled with the estimating experience of the designers, resulted in a Base Bid that was within $35,000 of the $12.5 million opinion of probable cost.

The load-bearing precast spandrels were finished with architectural-grade simulated stone finishes on the 1st, 2nd and 3rd levels and thin-set architectural brick on the 4th and 5th levels. The non-load bearing spandrel panels on the north and south elevations were part of the 4-story moment frame systems that utilized post-tensioned connections. The moment frame design of the south elevation was complicated by the shallow depth of the arched panels above the south entry plaza.

Several features were incorporated to improve the durability of the 25.5” deep pre-topped precast concrete double tee driving deck panels. These were stainless steel flange connectors, epoxy coated wire mesh reinforcing, low water/cement ratio, and corrosion inhibiting admixture. A silicate-based penetrating deck sealer was also added in the field.

The 62’ deck spans and high floor-to-floor clearances within the ramp required the designers and precast concrete fabricator to push the envelope of nearly all typical precast details. As a result, the design was a technical evolution from typical all-precast concrete parking ramps.

The UND Parking Ramp was planned, designed, and constructed to provide a facility that minimizes maintenance costs while providing a long life. Because of this design priority, concrete products – plant precast concrete, cast-in-place concrete, concrete masonry units – were used for all of the major framing components.