Installation of new turf for UND football is in full swing at the Alerus Center in Grand Forks.
Construction of the $4 million upgrade began in May as workers started modifying the old turf storage pit. To accommodate the new turf, the pit's size must be increased said Jeremy Linstad, operations manager of the city-owned events center.
The new turf will look familiar to fans, featuring a design similar to its predecessor, but it will feel very different to the football players. The turf is GameDay Grass 3D60H, which features five layers that allow it to mimic real grass more effectively, its maker AstroTurf said.
Besides feeling better, the new turf will also be easier to bring out and put away with the new Magic Carpet II Conversion System.
The system stores the turf on a roll in the pit when not in use and then allows crews to unravel it on game days. The Magic Carpet II features more automation than the old system.
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"Normally, it takes six hours to get the turf game-ready," Linstad said. "They're (AstroTurf) telling us that with the new system, it should take only two or three hours."
Also contributing to a shorter prep time is the fact the new turf is one large piece unlike the old turf, which also had sideline pieces that attached to its main piece.
The reduction in setup time also decreases the number of staff members need to help from 14 to about six.
Though he hasn't been able to test the company's claims of a faster setup yet, Linstad said the new system and turf will be a big improvement over the last product.
Construction for the project is on track and set to be completed Aug. 24. UND's first home football game will be Aug. 30 against South Dakota Mines.
Reach Jewett at (701) 780-1108; (800) 477-6572, ext. 108 or send email to bjewett@gfherald.com .
