ITHACA, N.Y. -- The historic crescent that frames the eastern side of Schoellkopf Stadium at Cornell University will be closed until Aug. 31 for renovation work. People using the crescent to view fireworks displays will have to arrange for an alternative viewing site.

Crews are in the process of removing approximately 25 percent of the suspended concrete bleachers, which were originally constructed in 1924. Sections of the bleachers that are being removed will be replaced, according to Peter Paradise, civil engineering section leader at the Department of Planning, Design and Construction at Cornell. 

In 2004, workers were in the process of applying a protective coating to the bleachers when they noticed that the concrete in some areas of the crescent had begun to deteriorate. Work will continue in 2006, and perhaps beyond, until all of the deteriorating concrete is repaired, Paradise said.