Superdome still ready for Rutgers-Tulane

Published Aug. 30, 2012 1:11 a.m. ET

foxsports

The Superdome came through Isaac largely undamaged and will be ready to host Tulane's scheduled opener against Rutgers on Saturday night if the schools still want to play the game, stadium chief Dog Thornton said.

Thornton delivered his assessment on Wednesday evening to Tulane officials, who said they expected to make a final call by Thursday morning.

The tropical storm, which was a hurricane for part of Wednesday, damaged signs, a marquee, landscaping and large decorative banners strapped to scaffolding along the edges of public plaza known as Champions Square. It also toppled a tree on a sidewalk along the stadium.

Thornton estimated that damage would cost around $40,000, but he noted that the roof never leaked, surrounding streets did not flood and the dome never lost power.

''All things considered we came through pretty well,'' Thornton said. ''I'd say right now everybody should plan on the game taking place unless otherwise notified.''

Key Superdome personnel have been advised to return to work by 1 p.m. Thursday.

Thornton said remaining obstacles to playing the game include the condition of the rest of the city and whether Louis Armstrong International Airport reopens in time for the arrival of Rutgers' charter flight Friday.

The airport was closed and without power Wednesday, and wasn't expected to handle any commercial air traffic Thursday.