lighting, and seating for both spectators and players taking a break during the action. The new facility represents a significant upgrade on Chapman University’s previous tennis facilities. The project was completed with a fast-track schedule and finished while the campus remained fully occupied. Jones notes that the University was eager to complete the facilities and have them open for the next school session, which meant the project moved forward quickly to design the grading followed shortly by the start of the demolition process. With the site prepped for the new facility, design began on the courts, which included the installation of post-tensioned slabs. This was followed by what Jones describes as the “finish work” of the surrounding areas such as the restrooms and venues facilities. Jones says the fast-track schedule allows facilities to be designed in pieces and then built, which avoids a lengthy design process that would eventually be followed by building. Designing and building simultaneously, Jones says, “works out a lot better for the schedule.” This certainly turned out to be the case for the Lastinger Tennis Center, as the project was successful in finishing on time.
From varsity, club, and intramural sports to rock climbing, swimming, and kayaking, the number of activities housed within sports and recreation facilities in higher education will likely continue to expand. The task of accommodating and innovating new facilities to meet these growing needs has fallen squarely on the professionals of the AEC industry. In this regard, firms like C.W. Driver are leading the way in developing new, robust sports and recreation facilities that improve an institution’s standing for prospective students and provide unique benefits to students, faculty, and staff.
LUKE CAROTHERS is the Editor of Civil + Structural Engineer Magazine. If you want us to cover your project or feature an article, he can be reached at lcarothers@ zweiggroup.com.
11
NOVEMBER 2023 csengineermag.com
Made with FlippingBook Annual report