Cost of replacing turf more than expected

Estimates for replacing the turf at the Fargodome came in a little higher than anticipated, but it appears the project is on target to be completed by the fall of 2012.

AstroTurf pegged its “GameDay 3D” synthetic system at $2.7 million and its “Pure Grass” nylon turf at $2.85 million, according to the Fargo Dome Authority Building Committee. Both are considered significantly cushier than the current turf and similar to the popular FieldTurf that stadiums have installed across the country.

The cost also includes widening the turf storage pit below the south end zone to accommodate the new product, said Fargodome general manager Rob Sobolik. Funds for the project would come from the dome’s surplus fund, which is currently at about $30 million, Sobolik said.

—Jeff Kolpack

Tags: sports, fargodome, turf