Texas Tech University Sports Performance Center – Fire Update
Today’s analysis confirmed minimal damage, safety protocols were followed and no delays in the project are expected.
Michael MolinaMarch 23, 2017 | Contact Scott Lacefield
A small fire at the northeast corner of the Texas Tech University Athletics Sports Performance Center construction site occurred at approximately 5:20 p.m. Wednesday.
The initial analysis of the site and incident conducted by Texas Tech University System Facilities Planning and Construction, TTU Fire Marshall’s office and the project contractor on Thursday morning confirmed minimal damage. The fire was caused by a piece of hot welding metal that fell from the upper roof of the structure on to palletized roofing deck materials on the lower roof below.
Safety watchmen immediately reacted by lowering their lift, but within one minute the pallet of material ignited.
“We are pleased all safety protocols were followed and thankful there were no injuries as a result of the incident,” said Texas Tech University System Vice Chancellor for Facilities Planning and Construction Michael Molina. “We would also like to thank Lubbock Fire and Rescue for their timely and professional response.”
The facility site is open for work. No delays are expected for a Sept. 1 project completion date.
About the Texas Tech University System
Established in 1996, the Texas Tech University System is one of the top public university systems in the state of Texas and nation, consisting of four universities—Texas Tech University, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Angelo State University and Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso.
Headquartered in Lubbock, Texas, the Texas Tech University System is a $2 billion enterprise focused on advancing higher education, health care, research and outreach with approximately 20,000 employees, more than 50,000 students, nearly 325,000 alumni and an endowment over $1.1 billion.
In its short history, the Texas Tech University System has grown tremendously and is nationally acclaimed, operating on more than a dozen campuses statewide and internationally. Under the dynamic leadership of Chancellor Robert L. Duncan, the Texas Tech University System has set forth a bold vision of excellence, collaboration and innovation and continues to prove that from here, it’s possible.
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CONTACT: Brett Ashworth, vice chancellor, Communications and Marketing, Texas Tech University System, (806) 742-0057 or brett.ashworth@ttu.edu