Stokes Stadium Renovation Project Moving Forward
Fall 2015—Progress continues in the quest to upgrade facilities at Stokes Stadium at Truman State University.
A trio of improvement projects is planned for the 2018 year, including the construction of a new press box, the replacement of field turf and resurfacing of the Kenneth Gardner Track as Truman is set to host the Great Lakes Valley Conference Outdoor Track and Field championships in the spring of 2019.
“These enhancements will significantly improve the quality of experience for our student athletes, our fans, and the other student groups who use the facilities at Stokes Stadium,” said Jerry Wollmering, Director of Athletics.
The improvements, estimated to cost approximately $2.5 million, will be financed from three sources. They include private contributions from alumni and friends, university funds, and designated resources from the student athletic fee; a student-imposed fee initiated several years ago designed to improve athletic facilities.
The press box at Stokes Stadium was constructed in 1962 with virtually no improvement to the facility over the past 50 years. The new facility will enhance the football game day needs of the media, game volunteers, and coaches, and offer entertainment space for special guests.
Several special gifts have been received to support the press box project, including leadership commitments from Mark and Jill Schell, Sodexo, Ken and Deborah Read, Mark McLeod, River City Construction, Pete Grathwohl, Tom Roberts, Gregg and Jackie Nesbitt, Lou Coco and Brian McGovern.