Work begins on Stadium-Track Project
EOU announces work to begin on Stadium-Track Project
April 19, 2018 LA GRANDE, Ore. – Eastern Oregon University announced today that work will begin this week on the Stadium-Track Project, providing major upgrades to Community Stadium and the campus track and field facilities.
The nearly $3 million update to the two main outdoor athletic venues include installing all-weather, multi-use synthetic turf at Community Stadium, along with increased access for people with disabilities and improved lighting for night games. EOU’s worn-out track will be replaced with a modern running surface that safeguards athletes and improves performance, and upgrades will be made to field event areas as well.
Local company Mike Becker General Contractor Inc., has been hired to coordinate construction over the coming months, aiming to reach completion for both projects by the end of August. Stadium updates are scheduled to be complete in time for EOU’s first home football game on August 25.
Mountaineer athletics and La Grande High School football and soccer teams will be able to utilize the new turf surface at the stadium, as will other sports. The improvements open up a range of possibilities for additional spectator events, athletic clinics, camps, student access and intramural competitions, plus postseason contests for youth and collegiate sports.
The endeavor promises significant benefits to the university, its students and the community, and includes partnerships with La Grande School District and the EOU Foundation.
Funding efforts thus far have garnered a portion of the amount needed, leaving about $900,000 left to fundraise from private sources and sponsors.
Working with supporters and alumni from local areas and around the nation, the EOU Foundation continues to encourage donations to this renovation. The university’s recent success securing state funding for a new Fieldhouse adds to the momentum building around this project, as the institution looks ahead to transforming the south side of campus, along with major updates to Loso Hall and completion of the North Side Campus Restoration project.
More information is available at eou.edu/stadium-track.
