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The internal demolition of the Coliseum is now, essentially,
complete! All but the original ice floor
has been removed from the 1939 structure, and that will get replaced, too, once
the reconstruction process moves a little further along. Scaffolding still covers the exterior north
face of the building as workers prepare it for tuck pointing when the weather
allows.
Progress on the New Arena – scheduled to open this August –
continues as planned. The entire roof
has now been erected and work now focuses on the existing South Pavilion, which
will adjoin the New Arena to allow easy access in and out for large animals and
equipment.
As all this work continues, more good news comes in the form
of federal dollars that have been approved for enhancing and beautifying the
grounds near the Coliseum in what Project Manager Rich Trombley calls the Pedestrian
Pathway project. This $2 million project
consists of five different parts that create a visitor-friendly route from the
fairgrounds’ infield directly to the Coliseum.
The five portions of the Pedestrian Pathway include:
- Plaza area in front of the
Coliseum – enlarged to provide more gathering space and a convenient drop-off
area.
- Southern entrance to
existing Walk Tunnel – a focal point for visitors exiting the Coliseum
complete with signage, lighting and landscaping.
- Walk Tunnel – improved signage
and lighting for easier navigation for visitors.
- Northern entrance to
existing Walk Tunnel – a focal point for visitors parking in the infield headed
to the Coliseum complete with signage, lighting and ADA accessibility.
- Half-mile infield track –
the existing all-weather stone horse-training surface will be relocated
away from the northern entrance of the Walk Tunnel and toward the north
side of the infield. This will
allow for proper ADA accessibility and eliminate potential horse/pedestrian
accidents.
Thanks to the federal government’s Transportation
Enhancement grant, just $400,000 will come from the Coliseum construction budget. Full steam ahead – and it’s just January!
Submitted by Andy
Klotz
