SU issues $4 million contract to renovate “Minidome” in 360 days

A $4 million construction contract was awarded for a 360-day renovation of the Southern University F.G. Clark Activity Center, said SU Facilities Planning Director, Larry McGee.
McGee said the contract was issued to Percy J. Matherne Contractor, Inc, a general contracting company specializing in commercial and industrial projects.
The project is scheduled for completion in February 2003, according to McGee.
Approximately $5 million in obligation bonds were issued in 1999 for the project.
“We are holding approximately $1 million in contingency funds in case the project calls for more money,” said McGee, “Any money left over would be used for additional Mini dome improvements.”
The renovations will eliminate deficiencies in fire code violations and improve fire spread rating, said McGee.
Additional work will also be done to relocate and expand the weight room, add a female dressing room containing lockers and showers, replace lighting, install a new sound system, seal concrete flooring and general painting.
Bad weather will not hinder the work schedule because 80 percent of the renovations are located inside, said McGee.
McGee said the original date to begin improvements was delayed because a new procedure forced contractors to acquire a performance bond. The delay also accommodated the 2002 SU basketball schedule.
According to McGee, there was a good deal of legwork to be done since receiving state finances. He said blueprints had to be drawn, bids from contractors were reviewed and discussed, prices were computed and many behind the scenes projects were done.
“Home basketball games in the 2002 season will be played in Seymour Gymnasium, which is the men’s gymnasium. If crowds are larger than the facilities, other arrangements will have to be made,” said McGee, “at least they have advanced notice to make preparations.”