Implosion FAQ

What is an implosion?

The “implosion” is basically setting off minimal charges to break up the concrete or cut into vertical steel structures in order to weaken the structure just enough that these members fail causing the structure to collapse by its own weight (gravity).

When will the implosion of the stadium take place?

The implosion of the West Grandstand is currently scheduled to occur Sunday, December 5, around 8:15 am. This date and time could change if there are severe winds or weather. The Frog Horn will sound five minutes prior to the start of the implosion and again at one minute prior to the implosion.

Why implode the stadium in lieu of conventionally using a wrecking ball?

Implosion simplifies the demolition process, which results in less prolonged and sustained noise in comparison to conventional demolition

If I live immediately west of the stadium, can I watch the implosion outside?

Out of an abundance of caution, Austin Commercial is requesting that neighbors who live closest to the creek on Alton, Simondale Drive and Colonial Parkway, not be outside their homes during the implosion. TCU and Austin will invite residents who live on these streets and wish to see the implosion to a special VIP viewing area which will be announced directly to these neighbors the week of the implosion. Breakfast, coffee and refreshments will be furnished. Austin also advises that pets be brought indoors as the brief noise of the implosion may be uncomfortable for pets.

Where can I go to view the implosion?

The public can view the implosion anywhere along and next to the restricted zone or closed areas (see map).

What streets will TCU close on the day of the implosion?

TCU will close Bellaire Drive North from Bellaire Drive West to Stadium Drive, Stadium Drive from Bellaire Drive North to West Cantey, and Cantey Street from Stadium Drive to the creek beginning at approximately 5:00 a.m. on Dec. 5. This is done as an added precautionary measure and to control the flow of people and traffic. Any event such as this is certain to draw large crowds because it is an interesting and rare event. The Fort Worth Police Department and the TCU Campus Police will be assisting in the patrolling and clearing of streets. The Fort Worth Fire Department will also be present.

Will homes and properties be safe from damage?

Yes. There may be some dust suspended in the air depending on wind direction and atmospheric conditions. If you should realize some dusting the dust can be removed easily with water spray down.

Austin Commercial is available to schedule a time to document existing external structures for residents who live closest to the creek. To schedule a time for documentation, call Austin Commercial at 817-933-3672.

Will my utilities be affected by the implosion?

Utilities to the existing stadium have been discontinued and will not influence houses in the immediate neighborhood. City emergency services are aware of the implosion and will notify the proper authorities if utilities to the immediate neighborhood are affected.

Will homes shake or move during the implosion?

No. Residents might feel vibration from non-damaging sound waves; all homes are well beyond anticipated seismic activity. Austin expects all discernable seismic activity to be within 50’ of the existing stadium. Home windows, exterior finishes, swimming pools, foundations, etc…will not be affected by the implosion. Austin will work with each homeowner immediately west of the stadium to schedule a time on or about Dec. 1-3 to videotape exteriors of homeowners’ structures that live in that area. TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT, CALL 817-933-3672.

How loud will the implosion be?

The surrounding area will hear the noise of the stands coming down, but there should not be any tremors felt. The noise of the implosion is estimated to be around 120 db near the structure.

If properties experience dusting is there any risk of asbestos or hazardous materials?

No.  TCU has hired testing and remediation firms to remove any asbestos materials and also to air test after removal. Any other possible hazardous materials will be removed and disposed of legally prior to the implosion.

How much dust will be in the area?

There will be dust from the implosion but mainly near the felled structure. The recent implosions such as the old Cowboys Stadium in Irving and the Baptist Church in Dallas were different types of buildings. TCU’s stadium consists primarily of concrete and steel with very few interior walls. As added precautions, Austin is placing high elevation water misting equipment to deter and minimize dust. Also, as another added precaution, Austin advises residents to close all doors, windows and vents, turn off air conditioning/ heating, bring pets indoors and avoid the area for 30 minutes if you have breathing issues. Heat and air conditioning vents can be reopened 30 minutes after the implosion.

When can I return home?

Any persons that left their homes will be able to return to their homes within about 30 minutes as we expect the streets to be reopened fully by that time.

How long will the implosion take?

The actual implosion will take less than a minute to fell the bulk of the structure. Prior to the implosion, crews will remove parts of the structure with heavy equipment. This work will include removal of west stadium lights, exterior ramps and removal of the southwest four-story office structure. Full removal of the felled structure will take about 3-4 weeks after the implosion. Austin estimates that up to 98% of the structure will be recycled.