Loadbearing Architectural Precast Panels Provide Solution for Performing Arts Center Theater Expansion

A $32 milHon renovation and expansion of the Times-Union Performing Arts Center in Jacksonville, Florida, was made possible by using loadhearing architectural precast concrete panels for the interior waiis of the new theater addition. The massive panels were cast with flat exterior sides and curving, smooth interior faces to act as the acoustical walls for the theater. Erecting the huge panels required a two-stage lift involving two cranes positioned inside the theater. Another key aspect of the project came in adding two posttensioned concrete balconies. The solid slabs were canfUevered over the ground-floor seating and supported from the precast concrete rear wall of the theater. The use of precast components saved time and labor costs and helped keep the fast-track project on schedule.