Monster Jam Takes Over CONSOL Energy Center

UPTOWN (KDKA) -- The brand new CONSOL Energy Center is transforming from an ice palace to a demolition derby.

It's all because the Monster Jam is in town.

"We're going to bring in about 1,000 yards of dirt, 45 truckloads of dirt, put a 6-to-8-inch base down, and build a bunch of ramps and stuff," Joe Nickson, show management, said.

It's the first go-around at the CONSOL Energy Center for Joe Nickson and his crew.

"They've made it easier for us, the monster trucks, and the equipment to get in and out, so it's made the changeover a lot faster in the new building," he said.

The main attraction – trucks named Raminator, Bad News, Gravedigger and Monster Mutt – especially for the younger fans.

"They love it," Jake Burkhart, crew chief, said. "They eat it up. To be able to put a smile on their faces is why I do this!"

It's hard to believe that the dirt that's on the floor right now is the same dirt that was on the ground when the Penguins played in Miami last week and will head to Jacksonville next week.

What's even harder to believe it that under the dirt is the same ice the Pens will skate on when they play the Caps on Monday night.

Organizers say it takes about six to eight hours to transform the derby back to an ice rink.

The Monster Jam will have four shows Friday through Sunday in Pittsburgh.