Stepping onto the main auditorium of the Tucson Convention Center, Elaine Becherer says looking at the seats it is hard to see the changes taking place to get ready for the Tucson Roadrunners.

Almost on cue, the screams of power tools cutting through concrete echo into the cavern as dozens of workers begin a major remodel of the locker rooms inside the city-owned convention center.

Becherer, a project manager with the city manager’s office, offers good news — the current renovations are on time and will not exceed the $3.7 million budget.

The crews are working on a strict schedule to finish a series of Roadrunners-related construction projects by Oct. 1.

Renovations include new locker rooms, a weight room and team offices for the city’s new hockey team. It requires the city to tear down the north kitchen as well as other older locker rooms at the TCC.

The city has had to turn down some requests to hold events — including Republican Vice Presidential nominee Mike Pence last week — because it cannot afford to halt construction.

The city says it will work around shows and events that already are booked, but will have to continue to reject other requests until the construction is complete.

Contact reporter Joe Ferguson at jferguson@tucson.com or 573-4197. On Twitter: @JoeFerguson

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