NORMAN, Okla. (AP) — A Kansas steel manufacturer has dropped its lawsuit against the University of Oklahoma, a construction project manager Flintco Inc. and a steel company, clearing the way for the expansion of the school's stadium.
The Oklahoman (https://bit.ly/1TAGQeC ) reports that HME filed a lawsuit, claiming it was the lowest bidder to provide steel for the Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium's expansion and renovation. It claimed that the contract was wrongfully awarded to W&W Steel, the second-lowest bidder.
According to attorneys for the university, the two bids were so close that officials decided to go with W&W Steel because it has built stadiums across the United States, while HME has not built any stadiums.
Attorneys for HME said the company was confident it could handle the project, and that the university had no credible reason to not take their bid.
A district judge agreed with HME and granted a temporary injunction to halt construction. Defense attorneys filed for a stay in the order with the state Supreme Court and were waiting for a ruling when the lawsuit was dropped.
Construction continued while the case was in court after the school asked the state Supreme Court to intervene, claiming irreparable harm if work had to be stopped.
Catherine Bishop, the school's vice president for public affairs, said the university was aware the lawsuit has been resolved.
"We're pleased that construction has continued throughout the process and is on schedule to be completed for the fall 2016 football season," she said.
Attorneys would not comment Wednesday on whether a settlement had been reached.
___
Information from: The Oklahoman, http://www.newsok.com