Building with Flexibility

What's challenging about construction around sporting and entertainment events?

University of Utah, Rice-Eccles Stadium West Tower Renovation

At the UU Rice-Eccles Stadium in the heart of Salt Lake City, the West Tower Renovation included essential infrastructure improvements: a two-phase, hot-water loop replacement and a fire-suppression system upgrade.

The existing fire sprinkler system had experienced significant contamination, requiring full pipe replacement across seven levels of the stadium. Clear and continuous collaboration with the University was critical to the project’s success, as the facility remained highly active throughout construction. In addition to the football season, the venue hosted concerts and special events—including a last-minute NHL showcase—that required rapid schedule adjustments. The Fortis team responded immediately, implementing a six-day work week to fully accommodate the University’s needs and maintain project momentum.

The renovation scope included installation of a new fire pump, complete sprinkler-piping replacement, upgraded VAV boxes serving the luxury suites, and selective finish improvements such as new paint and flooring. Fortis’ team implemented numerous protective measures during demolition and reconstruction to safeguard existing artwork, AV equipment, and interior finishes.

These upgrades enhanced life safety, improved system reliability, and elevated the guest experience in advance of the 2026–2027 event season.

Delivering work on an active stadium campus requires constant coordination and adaptability. At Rice-Eccles Stadium, our Fortis, trade partner, design, and owner teams operated as one, aligning on site conditions, access points, event schedules, and existing systems from the start. Through proactive communication and a shared commitment to flexibility, the team adapted in real time as conditions evolved, working alongside stadium operations to keep both construction and events moving forward successfully.