On September 3, Eastern Washington University (EWU) revealed plans to construct a new press box at Roos Field, marking a significant advancement in its $25 million renovation initiative. This new elevated structure will be located on the east side of the stadium and is estimated to cost $8 million.
EWU Athletics Director Tim Collins emphasized the importance of this project, stating that it will not only provide improved facilities for media covering events but will also serve as a catalyst for further enhancements to the stadium. The press box will be a vital addition as the Eagles prepare to host their first football game of the season against Northern Iowa this Saturday.
The existing press box, situated on the west side of Roos Field, is slated for redesign into premium suites and spaces aimed at enhancing the overall fan experience. Collins highlighted the multifaceted benefits of the new press box, indicating that it represents a broader commitment to improving the venue.
A ceremonial groundbreaking for the press box is scheduled for October 10, with construction expected to commence in 2024. The completion of this project is targeted for the start of the 2028 football season. The funding for this initiative, along with other phases of the renovation, is being sourced entirely from private donations.
Laura Thayer, EWU's associate vice president of philanthropy and campaign engagement, expressed gratitude towards the donors who are supporting the upgrades at Roos Field. She noted that these improvements are essential for attracting both fans and prospective student-athletes.
Recently, the university completed a $2.5 million project that resurfaced the track surrounding Roos Field, allowing EWU to bid for events it had previously been unable to host, including state track and field meets and competitions within the Big Sky Conference. In 2024, the university also added end zone suites on the stadium's south side.
It is worth noting that significant improvements at Roos Field have not occurred since 2012 and 2013, when a new video board and updated concession stands were introduced. The stadium's distinctive red turf was last replaced in 2020, having first been installed in 2010.
Future phases of the renovation plan include additional concession stands and restrooms on the east side, a new suite level, and an indoor club area on the west side, along with 198 new outdoor club seats. However, funding details for these future upgrades have yet to be disclosed.
These stadium enhancements are part of a broader initiative at Eastern Washington University, which includes nearly $250 million in capital improvements across the campus. This encompasses a $110 million expansion of the Science Building, set for completion this fall, a $51 million residence hall to be constructed on the site of Dryden Hall, and $17 million in energy upgrades throughout the university.
Currently, Roos Field has an official capacity of 8,600, although temporary bleachers have allowed for attendance exceeding 10,000 at certain football games. The stadium's record attendance was recorded on September 18, 2010, when 11,702 fans attended a game against the University of Montana. Despite its capacity, Roos Field ranks in the lower half among the 13 football programs in the Big Sky Conference, which includes notable teams such as Montana, Montana State, and Idaho. Eastern Washington last claimed the FCS title at the conclusion of the 2010 season, before Montana State's championship win in January 2023.
Leave a Comment