The Heidt Family Champions Center at Xavier University represents a transformative investment in the future of Xavier’s Division I athletic program. This 100,000-square-foot facility was redeveloped to create a modern, state-of-the-art training environment supporting the university’s student-athletes across multiple programs. The completed facility includes strength and conditioning areas, athletic training facilities, indoor turf training space, team locker rooms, coaches’ offices, and student-athlete lounge and support areas, all designed to enhance performance, recovery, and athlete development. Given the prominence of Xavier’s athletic program and the critical role this facility plays in supporting Division I athletics, schedule certainty, safety, and disciplined project execution were essential to the project’s success.
Pre-Planning and Execution
Extensive pre-construction planning and coordination were required due to the complexity of converting an existing facility into a modern athletic performance center. Early collaboration with the project team and Pepper Construction allowed for the development of a carefully sequenced demolition and preparation strategy to support the accelerated schedule. The project required full interior demolition of the existing structure, including removal of walls, ceilings, floor finishes, and mechanical systems. Additional scope included structural slab-on-deck removal to create new stair openings, slab-on-grade removal for underground utilities and foundation pads, skylight system demolition, and removal of an exterior elevated walkway system. Through detailed planning and coordination with structural and trade partners, demolition activities were strategically phased to maintain structural stability, allow concurrent operations, and prepare the building for the next stages of construction. This proactive planning approach ensured that critical path activities were executed efficiently while minimizing disruptions to the surrounding campus environment.
Schedule Adherence
Delivering the project on schedule was critical to allow Xavier University to align the facility’s completion with athletic program needs and recruiting initiatives. Our team prioritized schedule discipline through proactive planning, daily coordination, and clear communication with the construction manager and trade partners. Detailed work sequencing and continuous monitoring of progress enabled the team to maintain momentum through complex demolition operations. By anticipating challenges and resolving them early through collaborative planning, the project team successfully supported the overall construction schedule and ensured that downstream trades could begin their work without delay.
Commitment to Safety
Safety was a central focus throughout the project, particularly given the extensive demolition scope and structural modifications required within the existing building. A comprehensive safety program was implemented that emphasized site-specific planning, hazard analysis, and daily safety coordination with the project team. All work was executed under strict safety protocols, including controlled demolition procedures, structural monitoring during slab removal, and careful management of equipment and personnel within confined interior spaces. Through these efforts, the team maintained a safe working environment for all personnel while executing demanding demolition operations within an active campus setting.
Services Provided
Result
Through thoughtful pre-planning, disciplined execution, and an unwavering commitment to safety and schedule performance, the project team successfully supported the redevelopment of the Heidt Family Champions Center. The completed facility now stands as a cornerstone of Xavier University’s athletic infrastructure, providing elite training, recovery, and support spaces for Division I student-athletes and reinforcing the university’s commitment to athletic excellence.
Project Type: Demolition Cincinnati, Ohio…
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