In late 2018, the historic Foreman Field, a fixture of Old Dominion University (ODU) since its first football program began in 1936, underwent an extensive structural overhaul. Recognizing the need for modernization, ODU set out to revamp the facility, ensuring its compliance with current building codes and providing a more vibrant and welcoming gameday experience. Partnering with S.B. Ballard Construction, ODU set out to revamp the stadium before its 2019 season was due to kick off. Acknowledging the challenging task ahead, ODU enlisted the expertise of a diverse group of industry professionals, including our team at Tindall. By utilizing cutting-edge modeling techniques and comprehensive support plans, we not only met but surpassed expectations, helping to complete a project that would typically span eighteen months in an impressive nine-month timeframe.
Owner
Old Dominion University
Architect
Moseley Architects, Populous
Contractor
S.B. Ballard Construction
Location
Norfolk, VA
The large-scale project required custom solutions, as most of the original stadium had to be demolished to accommodate new seating, amenities, and architectural design. The teams involved collaborated strategically to manage the construction well. By closely working with the contractor and design team, Tindall minimized the guesswork regarding precast solutions, allowing for more accurate project estimates.
Cutting-edge technology played a crucial role in this project. By creating precise 3-D models of the precast design using Building Information Modeling (BIM) software and by implementing comprehensive erection plans accounting for the limited staging opportunities available, we were able to provide invaluable design assistance to the contractor and contribute to the project’s efficiency.
Tindall’s contribution to the $67.5 million project was significant. We meticulously sandblasted numerous architectural panels and created unique interior features, such as the City of Norfolk Seal cast into a panel. This helped modernize the facility while also memorializing the rich history of Old Dominion’s Foreman Field.
Demolition began in December 2018, with erection beginning in mid-February 2019 and concluding just two months later.
On August 31, 2019, the renovated stadium, now named Kornblau Field at S.B. Ballard Stadium, officially opened. With 21,944 seats to start and room to grow to 30,000 later, the Monarchs proudly won their first football game of the 2019 season here against their crosstown rival, Norfolk State, only nine months after the project began. This stadium is an excellent example of the value of precast technology and its versatility in helping mix tradition with modern design sensibilities.
