OSU Easy To Navigate Throughout Renovation Projects
education, higher education, oklahoma state university, schools,
Oklahoma State University has been around for a long time – since 1890.
Today, the school attracts students from all over the state, throughout the nation and 120 other countries.
More than a century after OSU was first established, major renovation and restoration efforts are taking place throughout the campus.
The large number of upgrades includes construction work to replace many of the university’s original water and sewer lines. There are also extensive storm sewer improvements as well as 10-foot sidewalks being installed along the south side of campus, in addition to new six-foot sidewalks along the north side. But despite all of the construction, the campus has remained relatively easy to navigate, thanks to careful planning.
A number of improvements are also planned for the Student Union Parking Garage, with construction scheduled to begin in 2010. Meanwhile, a new Sherman Smith Indoor Training Facility and outdoor practice fields are being built, as well as a new Equine Sports Complex and equine barn.
A $7 million restoration of the 113-year-old Old Central building – the campus’ first structure – is currently under way.
But perhaps the most visible construction endeavor has been occurring at Boone Pickens Stadium, the physical centerpiece of the school’s athletic program. A $185 million football stadium renovation began in 2006 and was slated for completion in time for the Cowboys’ September 2009 season home opener against the University of Georgia.
The project at Boone Pickens included the installation of more rest rooms, reconstruction of locker rooms, additional concession areas and improved seating for football fans. By the way, the first grandstand of what was then called Lewis Field was opened in 1920 and held about 8,000 seats. Today’s Boone Pickens Stadium can seat 60,000 spectators.
The 2009 football season also includes visits to Boone Pickens Stadium from the University of Texas, University of Missouri, Texas Tech University and University of Colorado.
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Story by Kevin Litwin
