Project Details
The Meridian Centre serves as a 5,200 seat recreational facility and a 6,000-plus-seat venue for other events like concerts. This design-build project was a joint venture between Rankin Construction and Ball Construction.
The Challenge
The building was built on top of the old Welland Canal, which meant there were very poor soil conditions. We also inherited a scenario in which the existing properties were very unstable and thus we were limited in where we could build.
The Ball Solution
To offset the poor soils, we drove 352 piles down to a depth of 115 feet each. We then added a structural slab overtop before beginning construction. In addition, we monitored the existing structures in the area to make sure we didn’t shake or damage them.
Ball’s expertise helped ensure success in this complex and risky undertaking. This included a tie-in to two pedestrian bridges connected to the downtown area—a very unique accomplishment.