Gorilla Netting designed and delivered a large-scale UAV drone enclosure for Elizabeth City State University (ECSU), providing the university with a fully enclosed outdoor facility for drone research and training. The project required specialized engineering to address challenging soft soil conditions and was procured through a competitive government bid process.
Client: Elizabeth City State University
Location: Elizabeth City, NC
Services: Drone Enclosure
Challenge
ECSU required a 250'L x 100'W x 55' above-grade drone enclosure for UAV operations. The site presented significant engineering challenges — soft soil with the water table within the first five feet — requiring custom foundation and pole design. Additional features including a drive-through door and walk-through entrance were required. The project went through a formal government bid process, requiring Gorilla Netting to be engaged as a preferred vendor.
Solution
Gorilla Netting developed four separate estimates covering both wood and steel pole options for the 250' x 100' x 55' AG enclosure, with configurations designed to perform in soft soil conditions. The final system included a drive-through access point and walk-through pedestrian entrance. Engineering was coordinated with a licensed PE to address the soil report findings. Chain-link fencing and lighting infrastructure were also incorporated into the project scope.
Outcome
The drone enclosure was successfully delivered to Elizabeth City State University following a competitive government procurement process. The ECSU facility stands as one of Gorilla Netting's flagship drone enclosure installations, demonstrating the company's capacity to deliver complex UAV infrastructure in challenging soil environments.