agchouston.org Summer 2025 Cornerstone 11 Able to accommodate up to 1,500 cots, the Epicenter also serves a critical community function as a designated operations center and climate-controlled emergency shelter. With multiple seating configurations, the versatile 10,400-seat arena is capable of adapting to a wide range of events. cashless concessions and an elevated VIP lounge overlooking the arena. The exclusive lounge offers a full bar and upscale seating, delivering a premium experience for guests. Architecturally, the Epicenter makes a lasting impression with its distinc- tive angular roofline and panoramic glass façade that reflects the expansive Texas sky. Additionally, an elegant, col- or-changing fountain at the entrance further enhances the facility’s dynamic, contemporary aesthetic. Project Challenges Constructing the Epicenter came with both immense opportunity and signifi- cant challenges. The project followed an ambitious 10-month planning phase and a 14-month construction schedule, with a groundbreaking held on November 15, 2021. One of the most difficult obstacles was a supply chain delay during the COVID-19 pandemic, which stalled the delivery of key air handler units and chillers. Originally slated for installation before the roof was completed, the delay required a creative workaround: The units were disassembled into four parts, craned into the building, reassembled on the mezzanine level and then installed — all inside the finished structure. The scope of work was substantial, including more than 14,000 linear feet of hydronic piping, 400 tons of structural steel and 1,300 cubic yards of concrete. The exterior demanded precision A striking example of contemporary design and construction excellence, Fort Bend County’s Epicenter hosts everything from graduations and sporting competitions to fairs and conferences. coordination across five distinct wall systems: tilt wall, curtain wall, metal veneer, brick veneer and CMU. Ensur- ing each system was properly joined and waterproofed was a complex part of the project as well. Exterior finishes included a curtain wall with over 200 panels of glass and a tilt wall weighing close to 200,000 lbs. that was lifted into place with a 300-ton crawler crane. Another engineering feat was the installation of the arena’s massive roof trusses — each 260 feet long and 26 feet tall. The complex lift required four cranes working in unison to lift and secure the segments and cross beams: two inside the structure to support the weight of the main trusses, one outside to position the cross beams and a fourth to lace and lock the assembly together. At the height of construction, the site hosted approximately 400 tradespeo- ple from 39 subcontractors, covering specialties such as electrical, structural, concrete and drywall. The scale and timeline of the project demanded expert collaboration, resulting in a facility that showcases superior craftsmanship, tech- nical precision, high-quality finishes and outstanding attention to detail. The Epicenter stands as a monumen- tal achievement for Fort Bend County — widely praised by residents, local leaders and industry partners alike for its community value, architectural appeal and construction excellence.
