Challenge
In 2017, the University of Florida announced an $11 million renovation project for Katie Seashole Pressly Softball Stadium that included increased seating, an elevated press box, expanded dugouts, and 360° open concourse with shade structures for fans. Designers at Walker Architects reached out to PermaTrak in September 2018 to design a walkway to go along the outfield for fans to watch the game and walk completely around the field. With the Gators’ first exhibition game scheduled in February 2019, the team had approximately five months to design, manufacture, and install the precast concrete walkway.
Solution
PermaTrak worked closely with Walker Architects to design a 140-foot curved walkway to connect both sides of the stadium along the stadium’s outfield fence. The walkway foundation incorporated PermaTrak’s precast concrete pier system as a cost-effective option. Drawings, fabrication and manufacturing were completed within five months, and the walkway was constructed on site in time for Opening Day of the 2019 season, where the Florida Gators took on Japan in an exhibition game.