With the $52.5 million fund-raising goal met, the college will soon begin construction of the complex that will include a 130,000 square feet field house, outdoor stadium with lighted turf field, 35,000 square feet aquatics pavilion, and an outdoor tennis facility with six courts.
The ground breaking ceremony took place on June 16, 2009 and the construction is set to begin soon. Designed by Moody-Nolan Inc., the center should be ready for use by late 2011. The total cost of the project is $65.5 million.
The college’s current athletic facilities in Hill Center date back to the 1960s, when IC enrollment was half its current size. In addition, Ithaca does not currently have a turf field, the required standard for Division III field hockey and lacrosse competition.
To be located in the southeast quadrant of the campus, the facility will directly benefit 50% of Ithaca College students who participate in varsity, intramural and club sports, by providing a practice and competition facility.
As the largest indoor event venue in Tompkins County, its seating and floor space will be used for campus and community events that draw large audiences, such as commencement and convocation ceremonies, conferences, concerts and major lectures.
The center will also offer opportunities to form active-learning partnerships with Ithaca College’s academic programs, such as sport media, broadcasting and athletic training.
