Watch CBS News

Silverdome Roof Deflated Ahead Of 2013 Renovations

PONTIAC, Mich. (AP) — Crews renovating the Pontiac Silverdome have deflated the roof ahead of the start of work to return the former home of the Detroit Lions to use.

Silverdome events coordinator Alex Loewy says stadium owner Triple Investment Group LLC will begin renovations this spring and summer. He says work will include a new roof with solar panels.

Loewy tells The Oakland Press that the deflation Thursday will save energy costs and clear the way for a more efficient renewable alternative.

The 80,300-seat stadium was completed in 1975 at a cost of $55 million in the dollars of that time. It was sold at auction in 2009 for $583,000.

The Lions played at the Silverdome until 2002. The team now plays at Ford Field in Detroit.

(© Copyright 2013 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.