After years of sharing the Metrodome with the Vikings and the Gophers, the Minnesota Twins finally received the necessary funding and approval to build a new $390 million stadium. Target Field, a 39,504-seat open-air ballpark, was constructed from the “inside out” because of tight space constraints due to bridges, railroads, parking structures, highways and a 30-foot-wide stormwater tunnel surrounding the site.
Challenges included keeping the project free of environmental citations because of stormwater runoff. Braun Intertec was retained to establish the guidelines for stormwater management and control. Our International Code Council special inspectors performed dynamic testing of driven piles; special inspection of piles and reinforcement placement; and testing of structural masonry construction, fireproofing, and structural steel welded and bolted connections.
Because the construction schedule included an end date that could not be moved, we made sure to provide enough qualified site personnel to keep pace with multiple construction crews working in every corner of the project. The number of agencies involved with the project relied on our expertise, which meant information had to be disseminated quickly, accurately and distinctly. We used our secure Braun Interport™ website to post daily reports where individuals with the appropriate passcodes could gain immediate access to the information.
After construction, the U.S. Green Building Council awarded Target Field LEED Silver Certification, making it the second Major League ballpark in the United States to achieve that status.
