New Turf for UNI

[HI54UNI]

Gamblers' losses are UNI's gain

WATERLOO --- The Black Hawk County Gaming Association pledged $500,000 to the University of Northern Iowa to replace the artificial turf in the UNI-Dome.

The award was one of 12 grants handed out by the BHCGA for the April grant cycle.

The 14-year-old turf at the UNI-Dome is nearly twice as old as its eight-year life expectancy, said Troy Dannen, UNI athletic director. The turf had been repaired over the years to stretch its longevity, he said, but needs to be replaced.

Don Hoth, president of the BHCGA, called the UNI-Dome a regional asset. He said the project will benefit more than UNI's athletic department. The annual state high school football tournament is played there, and other athletic and large-venue events draw thousands of people to the Cedar Valley every year, he said.

"It's a great facility that has many uses," he said. "It benefits everybody."

Dannen said the condition of the turf would start hurting the dome's ability to draw events.

School officials haven't chosen the turf system they will purchase. The department is looking at different types, including a rubber infill turf --- a new kind that simulates real grass.

Cost estimates range up to just less than $1 million. The grant won't pay for the full project, but having a substantial portion paid for likely will encourage donors and spur fundraising efforts, Dannen said.

"This grant was key to having other funding," he said.

The nonprofit BHCGA holds the gaming license to the Isle Casino Hotel Waterloo and receives 5.75 percent of the casino's gross receipts. That money is distributed each quarter after the BHCGA board of directors votes on the proposed projects.

http://wcfcourier.com/articles/2009/05/ ... 307702.txt

[guinzone]

I was about to say the school is broke as it is... Nice of BHCGA.. AFKLJASJF

[pantherrob82]

Everything is on track and good to go. Should be installed for the first home game. Green turf, purple endzones with yellow text.

I was in the Dome tonight and the North concourse around the stadium has been connected. Completion of the concourse and suites below will finish. The Dome is starting to look much better.

[Cap'n Cat]

Man, I can't wait for the night we play Youngtown and go nine in a row against those has-beens.