Sam Houston State University Completes Five-Story Press Box
Hoar Construction announced today the completion of a five-story press box for Bowers Stadium at Sam Houston State University (SHSU) in Huntsville, Texas. The university celebrated the milestone with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on July 30, unveiling one of its most significant athletic facility upgrades in decades.
Built to support the continued evolution and growth of Bearkat Athletics, the new press box replaces the original 40-year-old facility with expanded fan amenities, increased seating, and enhanced broadcast capabilities in recognition of SHSU’s move to a new athletic conference, Conference USA.
The upgraded press box spans 46,390 square feet with a 17,094-square-foot covered exterior section, for a total of 63,484 square feet of construction. The facility includes updated ticketing operations and back-of-house space, expanded concessions and restrooms, a premium club area with private service and outdoor balcony access and 13 luxury and presidential suites. The top floor will be the media center, featuring updated audiovisual and broadcasting spaces designed to enhance game-day coverage for television, radio and print media.
Sneak Peak: IU's $122M James T. Morris Arena
We are getting a new look inside the new James T. Morris Arena, the $110 million sports facility under construction on the campus of IU Indianapolis.
From the outside, the arena is already reshaping the IU Indy campus. Its modern facade graces a facility nicknamed "The Jim" as a tribute to the late Jim Morris and his legacy at IU, in sports and civics, in Indianapolis.
Inside the venue, IU Indy says it's a gamechanger for Jaguar athletics.
"100% a gamechanger. This eliminates a barrier we've had for a long time here. By having this on-campus venue, state of the art venue for our basketball and volleyball teams," said IU Indianapolis Athletic Director Luke Bosso. "It's going to be the nicest mid-major basketball arena in the country. It's going to be the newest and we're excited to fill it up every night — not just with baskets, but also with people."
Philly's Johnny Sample Rec Center Opens Following $15M Renovation
West Philadelphia’s Johnny Sample Recreation Center in Cobbs Creek reopened this week after a $15 million renovation that added a boxing training gym and upgraded its pool.
The facility, named after the professional athlete and community advocate, has been a staple in the community since it was renamed in 2019.
“[Sample] wasn’t just a football player; he was an athlete of extraordinary gifts,” said Pennsylvania state Sen. Anthony Hardy Williams, D-Philadelphia.
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