Besides putting in artificial stuff, the project involves removing the track surrounding the field and installing a new lighting system. The aim of removing the stadium’s track is to bring the playing surface closer to the stands on the north side. The renovation project is taken up as a part of MSU athletics transition to National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II.
The current phase one renovation is the first renovation to Herb Parker Stadium, the home of the Beaver Football Team, since the early 1970s. The $2.8 million scheme is financed through a low-interest loan.
The stadium will be installed with FieldTurf artificial turf by mid-2010. FieldTurf is a brand of artificial turf playing surface. It is manufactured and installed by the FieldTurf Tarkett division of Tarkett Inc., based in Georgia. Phase two will include construction of new stands at the stadium. The press box will be replaced during phase three.
