SIU Athletics Begin Multiphase Renovation

CARBONDALE, Ill. — A multi-phased renovation at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale is designed to created significant improvements for the university’s football and basketball programs, according to planners.

The $83 million expansion and renovation project, scheduled for completion by the 2010 sports seasons, includes a new 12,000-seat football stadium and a $29.9 million renovation to the basketball arena.

The arena, built in 1964, will receive new seating, a new scoreboard, new concession areas, more restrooms and improved accessibility with entrances that comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

The new U-shaped stadium will replace McAndrew Stadium, which was built in 1939. The field will be artificial grass turf, and will feature lawn seating and a lower concourse with concession areas, in addition to 12,000 fixed seats.

The third major addition to the campus is a 53,000-square-foot, two-story facility that will extend from the northeast face of arena. The $11.5 million structure designed by 360 Architecture will serve as the arena’s main entrance and ticket office. There is also space for an auditorium, administrative offices and football and basketball team facilities, according to school officials.

Funds for the project comes from private and public sources. The city of Carbondale has committed $20 million over 20 years and the university has raised student fees and initated fund-raising program. Profits from the eight luxury suites of the new football stadium will be applied to debt relief, according to officials.

The renovations are a part of Saluki Way, a construction campaign to create a new campus core for the university through an integrated academic and athletics complex, according to school officials.