POWERGRAMS

At top is the revamped arena, home to the Birmingham Squadron; middle is new row of switchgear; at bottom is a massive new water chiller. 5 and to optimize control of all the upgrades. There would be all-new electrical infrastructure, wiring and controls "to ensure everything was operating at maximum efficiency," Olive said. Five pieces of equipment – water chillers providing air conditioning to the arena and stadium – were so large that cranes were required to move them into place. Other large new parts needed to be brought in and moved on heavy-duty lifts or monorails temporarily installed for transport. Olive said six Alabama Power employees worked nearly full-time for two years helping implement the project. Meanwhile, BJCC facilities engineer Jerry Nelms was on the phone with Olive every day during the early construction, although their calls would eventually slow to a pace of several phone conferences each week as completion neared. The improvement that is most noticeable, Olive said, is the lighting inside Legacy Arena, which was a requirement of the NBA for Birmingham to host the Squadron team of the G League. He said another aspect that return visitors will quickly appreciate is the modern bathrooms and clubrooms. "Some things you can directly see, some things you can't see but you can feel," Olive said. "The air conditioning was the largest scope of the project but because it's in the bowels of the building, no one ever sees that." Olive said the APC team is proud of the work that brought about such important changes for fans of the Squadron, Stallions, UAB Blazers, frequent concerts and The World Games at the BJCC. He said it was crucial for the city of Birmingham, as well as the state of Alabama, to be able to reopen what is essentially a new entertainment center. After 27 years with Alabama Power, Olive is pleased with the progress of the project that will be complete by August. Olive is excited about the work accomplished inside and outside the facility, as well as the new revenue generated for the company and shareholders. He believes the improved facilities are a highlight of The World Games. "It looks really good," Olive said. "I'd encourage anyone to go take a look at the BJCC." By Chuck Chandler

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