Rogers Centre Transformation

A Herculean Task and Unforgiving Timeline

One of the most significant challenges we faced with this project was the do-or-die timeline. The stadium overhaul was done over two consecutive Toronto Blue Jays off-seasons. The day after the Jays were out of the playoffs, work commenced. At the midway point, the stadium had to be fully operational for game-goers, so neither phase could run late. This required a swift and intricate dance between the engineers, architects and tradespeople. Coordination, communication and readiness were non-negotiables—everyone had to be on their game every single day. As if that wasn’t difficult enough, many times, our concrete scans revealed buried infrastructure that couldn’t be disrupted; this sent the engineers and architects into an immediate redesign of that section and adjustment of the plan and schedule for the trades. Some teams worked night shifts and seven days a week to hit the deadline, but as a collective we made it happen.

Our Work

Our work has no glitz and glamour, but it was instrumental in the project's success. Here’s how we contributed:

• Comprehensive Scanning: Because the stadium is largely constructed with concrete, before any demolition, it was crucial to identify and locate infrastructure that was buried in the slabs. The danger of inaccurate scans is cutting utility lines,  rebar or other infrastructure and causing delays and recovery costs. For this project, we ran two ground-penetrating radar (GPR) scanners daily for seven months! We detected a ton of conduit and other hazards that resulted in some sections being reconfigured, and the related work reorganized. Other times, we detected electrical lines that had to be located back to the source, disconnected and rerun, so that we could proceed with coring and cutting where the design could not be changed. Our accuracy and expediency here were crucial.
   
• Cutting and Coring Techniques: We employed every type of cutting and coring technique in our arsenal to create openings for new infrastructure, plumbing, HVAC systems, and other improvements. These tasks required precision and skill, as we had to work in tight spaces and around sensitive areas like a live hotel, restaurant and parking garage inside the stadium. “I have had the pleasure of working with the team at Ontario Cutting and Coring for close to three decades. Their ability to respond, adapt to project demands, and find solutions to challenges presented on the job site, are what sets them apart from their competitors … OCC were a key contributor to the recent successful renovations at the Rogers Centre over both phases of the work.” - Jeff Long, General Superintendent at PCL Constructors Canada Inc.
   
• Safety First: The safety of our team and others on site was paramount. In addition to PCL’s safety protocol, we had spotters during drilling operations, erected barriers to prevent flying debris, and regular safety briefings. Projects moving at this speed tempt some to cut corners, but we find efficiencies elsewhere. PCL had strict safety measures in place.
   
• Collaboration and Coordination: Our project leader Ian Mosley was onsite every morning to stick handle between PCL, Priestly, VR Mechanical and others to review and adjust the ever-changing sequence of tasks. Ian ensured that our work was sequenced and communicated properly. He also secured the required partner permissions before every single cut and core we did. “I have worked with Ontario Cutting and Coring on several projects and I have never been disappointed. From the office staff to the site crews, they are quick to respond and understand the needs of the fast-paced construction industry. They are experts at problem-solving and committed to doing a quality job without compromising safety.” - Steve Lowe, Superintendent at PCL Constructors Canada Inc.

A Legacy of Excellence

As a company with a long history in Ontario, we were thrilled to be selected to help modernize our beloved landmark. This renovation showcases our ability to collaborate with multiple stakeholders under pressure and to deliver top-notch work under unforgiving deadlines and challenging conditions. It is also a record-setting project for our OneScan division. As you can imagine, our team feels very proud whenever we pass by the Rogers Centre, just like we feel about so many spots in the province. It’s a feeling that keeps us going on days when the work is tough.