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Chicago –– It may be the off season for the Chicago Bears football team, but it’s game time for Mortenson Construction, which is on a tight deadline to complete an expansion and updating of Bears’ headquarters, Halas Hall. As part of the renovation project, Mortenson has choreographed the work like a well-executed play since Halas Hall will continue to be occupied by front office staff, coaches and players during the renovation.
The construction work began after the NFL’s regular season ended on December 30, 2012 and must be completed by August 1, 2013 when the Bears return to the Lake Forest, Illinois complex from summer training camp and begin regular season practices. To meet the deadline, Mortenson is using innovative technology and construction techniques to save time and rework while also improving quality.
Employing virtual design and construction (VDC), Mortenson has created virtual 3D models of the new facilities, which enabled the company, the architect and subcontractors to identify and fix any potential problems, such as coordination between the building structure and the building architectural finishes. Mortenson also is evaluating prefabricating portions of the exterior walls on the ground, then add them in sections. Since fabricating on the ground is much easier than in situ this will help gain on the schedule, quality control and safety.
“We needed a contractor that we could count on to do the job fast and do it right. Mortenson offers the complete package, from extensive sports construction experience to a proven track record of managing complicated logistical challenges during construction, not to mention expertise in the latest construction technologies and techniques,” says John Bostrom, vice president of business administration for the Chicago Bears.
“The Chicago Bears are a world-class football team, and Halas Hall reflects that fact. The renovations will ensure the very best in facilities and experiences for the players, coaches, staff and fans,” says Greg Werner, vice president and general manager of Mortenson Construction’s Chicago office.
Mortenson is expanding Halas Hall by nearly one-third, adding 30,000 square feet to the current 100,000 square feet. The improvements include:
· Weight room and training room will be expanded from 7,000 to 8,500 square feet and feature new lighting, lockers, carpeting, meeting rooms with enhanced technology
· New event center will include a 4,000-square foot broadcast studio and conference center that can host as many as 150 people, plus new press conference room and additional work space for media
· The two-level entryway to event center will feature interactive digital displays, video monitors and memorabilia, including some never-before featured pieces of Bears history such as the 1963 NFL championship trophy.
· Practice viewing suite overlooking the team's practice fields with many of Soldier Field game suite amenities
· New kitchen and dining facility, including an outdoor patio, to accommodate up to 100 people
· Additional conference room and staff offices
Mortenson, which recently won the contract to build the new Minnesota Multi-Purpose Stadium that will be home to the Minnesota Vikings, has built more than 100 sports and event centers totaling more than $4 billion.
About Mortenson Construction
Founded in 1954, Mortenson Construction is a U.S.-based, privately held construction company. As one of the nation's top builders, Mortenson provides a complete range of services, including planning, program management, preconstruction, general contracting, construction management, design-build, and development. With a local office in Chicago, Mortenson has additional offices in Minneapolis, Denver, Milwaukee, Phoenix, Seattle and international operations in Canada and China.
