Why do we need to make improvements to the Fieldhouse?
McAlexander Fieldhouse was built in 1911 and it became the first student campus recreation facility in 1972. Other than the installation of synthetic turf in 1987, few improvements have been made over the years. The turf is well past its life cycle and will soon need to be replaced. When temporary repairs are no longer successful, safety will dictate its closure to field activities. Lighting is inefficient and poor, the concrete floor used for basketball and other court activities is not conducive to safe play, heating is limited and there is no mechanism for removing warm air during the summer months. The space is under-utilized, due to these conditions. The Fieldhouse, over 32,000 square feet is one of the large contiguous spaces located in the center of campus. With improvements, large events such as concerts, conferences, lectures and other group activities would have a venue to meet their needs.
