An extensive renovation aimed at improving the fan experience at the McKale Center on the busy University of Arizona campus presented a unique set of challenges: design and build the project within a very narrow time frame while carefully coordinating the work around the activities of 19 different sports programs. 

Upon approval to proceed, Mortenson led the effort to define a design and procurement schedule to meet the construction completion date. Working with the design team and University, Mortenson developed a phased-approach to the design and construction packages that allowed windows of time for the design team to supply what was needed to facilitate construction and meet milestones essential to the customer’s success. 

Through diligent investigation, careful planning, and close coordination, the facility remained fully occupied by 19 men and women’s sports programs, including basketball, volleyball, and the Athletics Department while hosting regularly scheduled events. The project team worked around-the-clock (maximizing nights and weekends) to minimize the impact of noise, traffic, and disruptions and ensure the completion date was met. 

The 300,000 SF McKale Center Renovation project was completed on budget and in time for the basketball season opener on November 14, 2014, during which a sold-out crowd of 14,700 enjoyed new seats, new concourses, new lighting and scoreboard, and additional restrooms and concessions.