University News

Artist rendering of synthetic surface.
[Download Print-Quality Image]

Artist rendering of synthetic surface.
[Download Print-Quality Image]

REVISION: Hanson Field Synthetic Surface Work Begins June 24

June 23, 2011

Share Printer friendly version

*REVISION: Scoreboard installation information has been removed from release as that portion of the project is on hold.

MACOMB, IL – The gates to Hanson Field at Western Illinois University will be locked beginning Friday, June 24, when heavy equipment is scheduled to start rolling in to install a new synthetic grass surface on the playing field, according to Scott Coker, assistant director of facilities planning and construction at Western's physical plant. Hanson Field will remain closed for the duration of the project, with the exception of the City of Macomb 6-9:45 p.m. July 4 celebration (west side seating only).

Dedicated in 1950, Hanson Field's grass playing surface will be replaced with a premium state-of-the-art synthetic surface that will provide 12-month usage opportunities for intercollegiate athletics programs, intramural sports programs, University Bands and other student activities. The project, supported by the students and by the University administration, was passed by the Board of Trustees March 25 and received final approval from the Illinois Board of Higher Education at its April meeting.

The work will include removing the existing grass surface and substrate, installing a gravel sub-base to improved drainage and layering with a top-compacted crushed stone base. The synthetic carpet system has a monofilament fiber with rubber and silica infill to provide cushioning for the athletes, Coker explained.

The new artificial surface on Hanson Field will cover approximately 82,500-square-feet. Use of the facility will be greatly increased, without having to protect the previously fragile grass surface; and there will be decreased maintenance and water costs, Coker added.

The project is scheduled to be completed by Aug. 26, in time for the first home football game against Jacksonville (FL) Saturday, Sept. 10.

For more information, contact Coker at (309) 298-1834, ext. 277.

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing