ACU Moody Coliseum Indoor Arena Renovation

 

Project Type

Multi-purpose indoor arena renovation

Location

Abilene, Texas, United States

Date

2019-2022

Team

HOK
Walter P Moore
Hoar Construction
Freedom Enterprise Inc.
Richard Barrios Consulting Engineer Inc.
Irwin Seating
Standard Iron & Wire Works Inc.

Abilene Christian University

The SPS Stadia+Arenas System was specified for the indoor arena renovation at Abilene Christian University’s Moody Coliseum in 2022.

Originally built in 1968, Moody Coliseum is a multi-purpose indoor arena that originally had seats for 4.600 spectators. It is home to the ACU Wildcats men’s and women’s basketball and volleyball teams, as well as functioning for other special events, including graduations, chapel services and concerts. As part of the 2022 arena renovation, the spectator capacity came down to 3,600, but the update meant the iconic venue kept its historic feel while delivering the expectations of modern-day student-athletes, fans and facility operators.

Our prefabricated terrace decking system was chosen to re-profile the existing concrete bowl, transforming the facility and saving considerable time and money. The regeneration project has resulted in upgraded sightlines and an improved 21st-century spectator and athlete experience. With factory prefabrication, the terrace decking system greatly improves the ease and speed of the on-site installation of:

  • Parapet Walls
  • Seats
  • Balustrades and Railings
  • Aisle Steps
  • Vomitory Walls
  • ADA/VIP/Media Platform

 

Planning began for an arena renovation of the Coliseum in 2019. SPS Technology was selected to be part of the Design Build Team during 2020 and construction was completed in the fall of 2022. SPS Technology Network Partner Freedom Enterprise Inc. installed the SPS Stadia + Arenas components. FEI was also the installing partner on Delaware Stadium.

During our team's design study it was determined that, although the facility was in need of replacement, the current facility location was the number one choice for the daily users, and a renovation became apparent. By utilizing SPS, the team was able to design a new profile that allowed for deeper treads, wider seats and more comfortable aisles. This 'over-build' approach of the SPS System provided a very efficient construction schedule by minimizing the demolition needed, reducing the overall construction timeline and, ultimately, saving significant project costs for our client.

Ron Gans, Principal/ Senior Designer, HOK