In October 2021, my stepdaughter received the notification: “Abby, welcome to the Auburn University Class of 2026!” It was especially exciting for me as Abby would be the first in my family to attend college.
Last fall, we made our third annual Parents’ Day trip to Auburn University to attend a football game. As we entered Jordan-Hare Stadium, I noticed a crane situated near the North end zone. Curious, I asked what was being constructed, and I was told that the Auburn University Board of Trustees accepted the proposal from Auburn Athletics to replace the existing scoreboard. Immediately my mind flashed back to one of the most challenging projects I had ever undertaken as a survey party chief.
Surveying Jordan-Hare Stadium
In 2000, Sain Associates was hired to perform surveys on the interior and exterior of Jordan-Hare Stadium for the proposed expansion. The survey included location of overhead beams and structures in a 3-D format as well as ground level topographic locations throughout the concourse levels and suites. Although laser scanning technology had been around since the 1960s, it was just starting to gain traction as a survey tool. So, the decision was made to use traditional survey methods for locating the information. Multiple traverse and elevation loops were run through the concourse and through each vomitorium to establish precise control for the project. Thousands of detailed shots, measurements, and sketches were made in the field, making it one of the most intricate and time-consuming surveys I have ever completed.
A Lasting Impact
The expansion was completed in the early 2000s, and subsequent expansions have increased the stadium’s seating capacity to 88,043 – making it the eleventh largest on-campus stadium in the nation. Since then, I have had opportunities to work on many large and small projects, but this will always be one of my proudest work accomplishments.
At Sain Associates, we thrive on tackling complex and challenging survey projects. If you have a project that requires attention to detail and innovative solutions, we’re here to help. Learn more about our surveying services and how we can support your next project.