The Challenge:
Rodda Construction was given the challenge to turn an aging and inefficient ballpark into a vibrant new Spring Training Facility for the Detroit Tigers. The project would involve renovating the existing structure and meshing the new additions to create a completely new stadium. To make matters more complicated, the project had to be completed in between seasons, only a ten month schedule. The last challenge was that the minor league locker room and Florida Operations Offices needed to remain operational through-out construction.
The Solution:
Rodda developed a detailed construction plan that broke out each component of the project into manageable elements, and then we went to work to meticulously coordinate these activities together. By utilizing different subcontractors for separate project sections, we were able to ensure that dedicated effort was given to each of the project’s important pieces, and that the project schedule would not be compromised. We lead an extensive effort to discover and utilize the existing buildings’ structural and systems where possible to save time and recourses, and we were able to upgrade these elements where necessary. Through weekly team meetings, field verifications, and extensive shop drawing collaboration with the designers, Rodda was able to avoid costly project delays and issues that are typically commonplace on complex renovation projects.
The Results:
The beautiful barkpark speaks for itself, and it has become a model for the future renovation work done on Spring Training facilities across Florida. The park is now consistently mentioned among the top facilities in the State, and visitors from around the world visit it every year. By engaging careful planning and through our complete commitment to project success, we were able to complete this unique endeavor well before the first pitch of Spring Training was to take place. This gave the Tigers, and the City of Lakeland staff ample time to get comfortable in their new facility before gameday.
Client Testimonial:
Rodda Construction has successfully completed several significant projects for the City of Lakeland over the last ten years, including the Joker Marchant Stadium renovation. Joker Marchant Stadium was completed on time and within the budget.
Although the project required fast tracking to accomplish it successfully in the limited timeframe between seasons, effective planning and team leadership by Mr. Rodda resulted in a very successful project. Existing conditions and weather were major obstacles that could have resulted in project failure; however, the Rodda team brought in necessary resources to keep the project on schedule. His accurate cost estimating and efficiencies brought back opportunities for significant savings on materials, an effort that resulted in value added items back to the project.
Bill Tinsley
Director of Parks and Recreation
City of Lakeland
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