California State University: Tackling the Immutable Deadline to Meet Title IX Requirements
Objective
Objective
To plan and manage a comprehensive fast-track schedule for construction of a women's softball stadium that met Title IX requirements for the school.
Situation
The Athletics Department at California State University, Fresno was in a bind. To meet U.S. Department of Justice requirements for Title IX, the school was obligated to complete a number of construction projects in support of women’s athletics, most notably construction of a new 5,000-seat women's softball stadium, by a fixed date. A contract to air the first game on ESPN made meeting the deadline essential. With 10 months to go and only 50 percent of the construction documents completed, the University needed superior Project Management expertise and horsepower to meet its deadline.
PMA’s Contribution
PMA brought an experienced team of people to the project who hit the ground running. Our familiarity with public procurement requirements for the university system allowed us to use an effective fast-track methodology for completing construction documents and beginning construction quickly. Vigilant daily management and on-site support, particularly during the last two months, allowed PMA to anticipate and avoid problems and tackle difficulties as they arose. In fact, PMA staff members literally helped the contractor complete bolting-down of stadium seats the night before the opening game. Efficient planning and execution also allowed PMA to complete construction of a women's freestanding shower and locker facility, renovations to a pool and tennis courts, and construction of visiting team locker room additions in the baseball stadium at the same time the softball stadium was constructed.
Results
Not only did the Bulldog Diamond open on time to record breaking crowds, but the Department of Justice was satisfied that the school met all its Title IX obligations within the required time frame and parameters.