Inside INdiana Business is reporting that Purdue University took a big step towards a major facelift of Ross-Ade Stadium. The board of trustees on Friday gave approval to a renovation project for the stadium built in 1924. Estimates on the project have run as high as $125 million.
The board authorized Purdue Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer Bill Sullivan to select and retain an architectural and engineering firm to oversee the project. The university wants to enhance the stadium appearance and improve the game-day experience for Boilermaker fans.
The project, which would be completed in phases, may include:
- Open concourse and more diverse seating options
- Replacement of the upper bowl
- Upgrades to the pavilion
- Construction of a new south end zone building.
Demolition of the current south end zone building is part of a $10 million project which would include the construction of a new video board. The trustees on Friday approved planning, financing, constructing and awarding of that construction contract.
The new video board will be larger than the current video board. Construction on that project is expected to begin in December 2019 following the end of the upcoming football season. If the project is on schedule through winter, it will be ready for the 2020 football season.
Other Board Action:
Purdue trustees approved 2020 health plans which includes no increase to employee base premiums.The university will offer the same three medical plan options with Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield in 2020. The university is also phasing out the PPO Plan. For 2020, only those who are currently enrolled in the PPO plan have the ability to elect it; new enrollees will not be eligible. Employees also will see the return of a simplified Healthy Boiler Program with incentive options.
The board also approved a new name for the recently purchased Park 3000 property by Purdue University Fort Wayne. It will be known as the Richard T. Doermer School of Business Building. The Purdue Fort Wayne Foundation and two anonymous donors contributed to the nearly $3 million needed to purchase the building. The university says some minor renovations will be needed to make it ready for occupancy.