As part of the $202.5 million Progressive Field Reimagined renovation, Independence Excavating (IX) performed extensive structural and selective demolition to support the transformation of the Cleveland Guardians’ historic ballpark. Working alongside the construction management team of Independence Construction, M.A. Mortenson Co., and The AKA Team, IX helped prepare the stadium for modernized seating, expanded amenities, and upgraded player facilities while preserving its iconic character.

With a compressed offseason schedule and complex site logistics, IX deployed more than 80 skilled employees and two 300-ton crawler cranes to dismantle upper-deck seating, structural components, and precast concrete stadium sections. Crews removed 2,500 stadium seats and 32 stadium overbuilds and party decks, completing more than 700 crane picks in less than two months. Custom-engineered lifting devices streamlined precast removal, reduced manual rigging requirements, and improved efficiency and worker safety.

Additional work included selective demolition of the Administration Building's barrel roof canopy, interior demolition of the former Terrace Club, and removal of concessions, restrooms, concrete slabs, foundations, and below-grade utilities. Subsequent phases included demolition to accommodate new pool installations, renovated dugout suites, and upgraded stadium infrastructure.

Through careful coordination, innovative demolition methods, and precise execution, IX successfully completed more than 50,000 work hours without incident, helping advance a multiphase renovation designed to enhance the fan and player experience at one of Cleveland's most recognizable landmarks.