What began as a simple sketch of a leaf evolved into a canopy the size of a football field, serving as an iconic riverfront landmark at the new world-class Acrisure Amphitheater in Grand Rapids, Mich. This session will explore the design and engineering journey of the canopy structure, supported by two distinctive three-pronged steel columns. Attendees will learn how the project team transformed an organic concept into an elegant steel structure, addressing load paths, stability systems, fabrication challenges, and erection planning. A special focus will be placed on the engineering and fabrication of the tri-column base connections, custom fabricated by CastConnex, which played a pivotal role in achieving both structural performance and architectural design intent.
Source: NASCC Year: 2026
Speaker(s): Erica Flannery, PE, and Jacinda Collins, PE, LEED Green Associate