NORFOLK, Va. -- Old Dominion University's Board of Visitors endorsed rebuilding Foreman Field at S.B. Ballard Stadium today in order to enhance the football experience of fans, without increasing student fees.
Built in 1936, Foreman Field has served the needs of sold-out crowds of 20,118 fans for the past seven seasons. While fans indicated the most meaningful aspect of game day was the atmosphere at Foreman Field, they expressed the need for the University to enhance their football experience by improving the comfort of seats and expanding food, restroom and other amenities. They also supported keeping the field at its current location.
Based on the results of the study, the Board of Visitors approved moving forward with a phased approach to rebuild Foreman Field.
"This decision, based on solid research and the preferences of the Monarch community, positions the university for the future within a bold yet sensible framework," said John R. Broderick, the president of Old Dominion. "I'm excited that we will enhance the Foreman Field experience for fans without putting additional financial pressure on our students."
Phase I, a $55 million renovation project that addresses areas identified by fans as most important, will include rebuilding the entire East and West bowls to remove all bleachers and add 15,500 new chair-back seats and 176 new loge seats-increasing capacity to 22,130-with convenient access to new food concession stands and restrooms. An enhanced press box will also be built.
"Our first priority with the renovation of our current stadium was to enhance and solidify our fan experience in the short term, while preparing for future stadium expansion and market demand in the long term," said Director of Athletics Wood Selig. "The fact that every single one of our sideline seats will be chair-back with ample leg room, with enhanced site lines and elevation, will considerably improve our fans' in-stadium experience. We will be the only Conference-USA stadium and among only a few college football stadiums to have all chair-back seating."
Improvements made during Phase I will provide the opportunity for the stadium capacity to later be increased to more than 30,000 with the enclosure of the North end zone and the potential for upper decks.
Bobby Wilder, the coach of Old Dominion's football team, said, "I want to thank the university administration and Board of Visitors for their continuing strong support of our football program. We look forward to playing in one of the premier university stadiums in the country, in front of sellout crowds."
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