Construction will begin soon in Southfield on a $2-million, steel-and-masonry grandstand structure with seating for 2,300 fans of Lawrence Technological University athletic teams.
A permanent, all-weather field and outdoor lighting were installed in 2017 and 2018, respectively, thanks to an anonymous $1 million gift. The new work also is being funded by an anonymous donor.
The new structure will include space for adding future home and visitor locker rooms, restrooms, and concession stands. A permanent press box also is part of the future plans, along with an athletic training and conditioning facility.
“We are delighted to build on the strong start that we have already established with the growth of our athletic programs,” says Virinder Moudgil, president of LTU.
Lawrence Tech offers 25 men’s and women’s NAIA athletic programs that involve more than 500 students. LTU relaunched athletics in 2012 after a hiatus of more than 50 years in an effort to attract more top students. Lawrence Tech’s football team will have its first full season this fall against all varsity opponents. Football had not been played at the school since 1946. Track and field will be offered for the first time in the spring of 2020.
“There are many terrific students who want to continue competing in athletics at the college level,” says Kevin Finn, the dean of students at who helped resurrect LTU sports. “The combination of our very strong academic programs with athletics has been a huge boost to school spirit and campus life.”
The Collaborative Inc., which has offices in Ann Arbor and Toledo, is the architect on the project. The general contractor is Rochester-based Frank Rewold & Sons Inc.
