April 30, 2014

COLUMBIA, S.C. – South Carolina’s State Budget & Control Board gave final approval today to the University of South Carolina for several facility projects, including renovation to the plaza surrounding Williams-Brice Stadium, construction for a new building for men’s and women’s soccer at Stone Stadium, a new track and field oval at Weems Baskin Track and an upgraded USC Field House that will feature a new six-lane 200-meter fixed bank track with seating.

“The continuing enhancement and development of our athletic facilities will allow us to recruit the finest student-athletes and compete for championships in the nation’s top conference – the SEC. The Williams-Brice Stadium Plaza development will add to the high quality aesthetic surroundings for our fans to enjoy on football game days,” South Carolina Director of Athletics Ray Tanner said.

All four projects, with a combined estimated cost of $33 million, were approved by the University Board of Trustees on Feb. 28, 2013.

FOOTBALL FACILITY UPGRADES

Construction is underway on the new Football Indoor Practice Facility, which will be on the west end of Gamecock Park, and the addition of new practice fields adjacent to the practice facility. The indoor facility will have a regulation 100-yard turf football field and include restrooms, athletic training rooms and film towers.

Renovations to the plaza surrounding Williams-Brice Stadium will provide an aesthetic look to the entrance of the stadium, including beautiful greenery, brick entranceways and will create an institutional landmark for visitors, fans, students and alumni.

NEW SOCCER BUILDING

Construction will begin on a building located next to the Eugene E. Stone III Soccer Stadium, which will house locker rooms, weight room and a video room.

NEW TRACK FACILITIES

The new outdoor track and field oval will seat 1,450 with support building for storage and restrooms. The Athletics Village promenade walkway will be extended from Carolina softball to Rosewood Drive to support this new facility.

A new six-lane, 200-meter fixed bank indoor track with seating for 500. Support areas will include restrooms, laundry room, sports medicine and team meeting space.