Construction of towers to support ‘Colossus’ screen begins at Bristol

The first phase of constructing the four towers that will support what is touted to be the world's largest center-hung video display started Wednesday at Bristol Motor Speedway. The towers – which range in height from 190 to 220 feet and weigh upwards of 50,000 pounds per 10 foot by 10 foot section – are needed to support the massive screen dubbed "Colossus."

Rentenbach Constructors, of Knoxville, has two cranes from Barnhart Crane & Rigging outside of turn 2 in order to lift each section into place, where a crew of workers bolts the massive pieces into place. The tower piece of the construction is slated to be complete by Jan. 25. Engineers and construction crews are then scheduled to install the cables that will give support to the towers to hold "Colossus" in place.

The entire project, including the installation of the giant television, is expected to be complete for the Food City 500 race weekend. BMS officials have said "Colossus" will enhance the experience of those visiting the speedway, providing them with premium viewing that "rivals the sharpness of the outdoor screens in Times Square as well as thunderous, high-quality sound provided via 428 stadium speakers," according to an earlier news release from BMS.

See pictures at the Bristol Herald-Courier site.