Letter to the JMU Community about the Bridgeforth Stadium Expansion
News
To the students, faculty and staff of James Madison University:
As many of you may have already noticed, the university is beginning a large construction project to expand the current Bridgeforth Stadium. It's a project that has been in planning for several years, one that we know is necessary, and one that can serve as a point of pride for all current, former and future Dukes.
But we also know that it is a large project, one that will require time and space as well as some sacrifice from those residents and community members in the immediate vicinity of the stadium. To those students and community members who have been affected by noise, parking and transportation disturbances, we apologize and thank you for your patience while we work through our growing pains. Much consideration has been given to minimizing construction-related problems on campus and will be continually re-evaluated as work progresses.
Early demolition for phase one of the construction has begun, including relocating a sewer line for the stadium. This has created noise and sidewalk accessibility issues for residents in the area. Most work will not begin until 7 a.m. each day, to allow our students living in the area a measure of quiet when preparing for their days, and ear plugs will be distributed free of charge to those who wish to have them.
Phase one of the construction will increase seating, accessibility and lighting for university events at the stadium, and will take place over the next nine months. A project of this scale will inevitably cause inconveniences for our community, including some periods of 24-hour work. For updates or questions about the construction, please contact Don Egle at (540) 568-5322 or egledk@jmu.edu.
During this time, we encourage all Dukes to plan ahead, avoid heavily impacted areas when possible and to utilize the beautiful and convenient facilities available in other areas of campus. Please pardon our dust and show your school spirit as we undertake this project that we are confident will be a part of the JMU legacy for years to come.
Thank you.
Jeff Bourne, Director of Intercollegiate Athletics
Maggie Burkhart Evans, Director of Residence Life
