Features
Rimrock Still Sound
Engineers hired by the Yellowstone County Commission’s insurance company to inspect the tornado-damaged Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark in Billings, Mont., have deemed the 12,000-capacity venue structurally sound and can be repaired.
Photo: AP Photo
Billings Mayor Tom Hanel, right, shows Montana Gov. Brian Schweitzer damage caused by tornado that hit the Rimrock Auto Arena.
County officials said June 23 the structure reportedly won’t have to be demolished after all.
A tornado moving through the area June 20 ripped the roof off the building and dropped golf-ball sized hail and torrential rains, severely damaging the facility and nearby businesses.
In addition to the massive cleanup effort, MetraPark staff have quickly worked to reschedule events.
Concerts with Jason Aldean, Scorpions, Hinder and Finger Eleven during the Montana State Fair Aug. 13-15 will take place at the MetraPark grandstand.
An Aug. 22 concert with Celtic Woman and Aug. 25 “Carnival Of Madness” tour stop are pending alternative arrangements, the MetraPark website said.
However, a Sept. 26 concert with Brad Paisley and Dec. 10 concert with Carrie Underwood have both been canceled.
Photo: AP Photo
A front-end loader removes debris from the parking lot of the Rimrock Auto Arena in Billings, Mont.
MetraPark officials said refunds for ticket-holders would begin July 1.
Click here for the MetraPark website.