Blitch/Knevel Architects is a partner in the design team (with NBBJ) for the new University Medical Center to replace the 68-year-old Medical Center of Louisiana at New Orleans (MCLNO), closed following Hurricane Katrina.  The 1.2 billion facility is part of the new medical district which also includes a replacement Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center.

The projects brings a new world-class academic medical center to downtown New Orleans.  The design incorporates the best practices of evidence based design, sustainability, operational efficiency, and anticipates flexibility & future growth.  These new enviroments are designed to completely transform the patient experience and attract the best and brightest staff.  The level 1 trauma center is designed to respond to the most critical cases on a 24 hour basis. 

The new medical center campus will include an inpatient of 424 beds; a diagnostic and treatment pavilion, an ambulatory care pavilion and support structures including a parking structure and central engergy plant.  All of the structures are designed above the flood levels of Katrina, and to be self-sustaining in the event of a catastrophe.

The entire development is serving as a major economic anchor in the post-Katrina recovery of the region.