Bruco Gets a Facelift
by Kris Garrison
photos by Quinton Cooper
Dome News, Summer 2001

What happens when the insect world and construction industry collide?

You get Bruco, The Texas Italian Caterpillar.

Bruco is an extremely bright, 240-foot, seven-humped (or domed) caterpillar used by Monolithic Airform Manufacturing in Italy, Texas.

Why the name Bruco? Bruco is Italian for caterpillar and, of course, being built in Italy, Texas, we thought it the perfect name.

Bruco is part of Monolithic headquarters - a research park which offers visitors a sampling of various coatings and products to view as they tour the property.

When Bruco was built in early 1993, it was constructed using scraps of extremely lightweight material. In late 2000, high winds caught the Airform causing it to rip and leave polyurethane foam exposed. Once foam is exposed to ultraviolet rays, it quickly deteriorates. To avoid further destruction, Bruco's Airform needed a new cover as soon as possible.

During the summer of 2001, Bruco received a face lift! The exterior was covered with various colored metal cladding giving Bruco more personality and protection. Workers have battled the heat to complete the job as quickly as possible. Public Relations Director, Anne DeMoss also braved triple digit temperatures to paint Bruco's face, boots and logo.

Metal cladding provides a strong exterior finish. Each 1' x 2' metal sheet is screwed into the Airform and into connecting metal sheets and into the metal strapping placed over the Airform before cladding is installed. Since Bruco is highly exposed to dirt, the metal cladding is a great option.

During the placement of the cladding, comments ranged from, "It will look great when it's all finished" to "What in the world are they doing now?""

How well known is Bruco?

Bruco is a popular landmark along Interstate 35 between Dallas and Austin, Texas and is seen by approximately 35,000 travelers per day. It has been featured in many publications, broadcasted on local television shows and news broadcasts. David South's goal in using the colorful cladding was to protect the structure and generate attention. He accomplished his goal! Many visitors stop at Monolithic to satisfy the curiosity Bruco generates.

Public Relations Director Anne DeMoss braves the heat to paint Bruco's eyes.

Webmaster, Rebecca South stands back and inspects Bruco's new look. The metal Cladding comes is a variety of colors and makes a durable, protective coating for a Monolithic dome.

177 Dome Park Place - Italy, TX 76651
Tel (972)483-7423 - Fax (972)483-6662
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