On Dec. 14 at 2:27 p.m., the Arlington Fire Dept. responded to a two-alarm structure fire at Globe Life Field, a $1.1-billion project under construction in Arlington, Texas. Firefighters encountered significant smoke and flames coming from the sub-roof near the fifth floor, according to AFD. The fire was contained 37 minutes after the first AFD units arrived, and there were no injuries. General contractor Manhattan Construction is investigating the cause of the fire in conjunction with AFD. The AFD’s preliminary investigation indicates sparks from a welder ignited a crate of materials that was stored on the sub-roof below.

AFD credited the fast response to significant preplanning and response training that was done at the stadium throughout construction. The existing working relationship with Texas Rangers and Manhattan Construction also helped facilitate the quick and effective fire containment and control operation.

“Forensic fire engineers reviewed the damaged areas on Dec. 15, 2019. While a final analysis and report are not available at this time, initial assessments indicate limited replacement of metal decking that was damaged by the fire,” Manhattan Vice President Greg McClure said in a statement. “Approximately 2,000 sq ft of roof area was also damaged. It will be removed, inspected and replaced. Inspections are ongoing and based on what we know today, we do not anticipate any delays to the opening of the stadium.”

The Texas Rangers expect to play at Globe Life Field in 2020.