Work continues on ‘Gateway to Athletics’

If you’re wondering about the construction activity over by Springs Brooks Stadium, it’s the new Athletic Plaza, described by Rein Mungo as the “gateway to the athletic area” of Springs Brooks Stadium (baseball) and Brooks Stadium (football).

The Athletic Plaza will include the gateway, a sitting area, a bus turn and a walkway between the softball and baseball complex.

Pavers will lead onto Chanticleer Drive that create the natural view and walkway through the area. Eventually, a 7-foot tall bronze statue of Chauncey the mascot will greet sports fans.

The Brooks Stadium/Spring Brooks Stadium parking lot project combines what was called the Brooks Stadium parking lot and what has been called the RV parking lot that was between the baseball stadium and University Boulevard. The demolition is now taking place with the trees and asphalt being removed.

“We really won’t be sure of the exact number of parking spaces that will be available until the contractor gets the base material down, but it should be 280-plus standard spaces, four RV spaces and eight handicapped spaces," according to Mungo.

Substantial completion is estimated to be Sept. 6.