Zervas was hired to work with WWU user groups and representatives to design a fully lighted and fenced artificial turf playfield and amenities to replace the two multi-level smaller grass fields at the south end of campus. The addition of this multi-purpose field enhances total field space available for use by all campus community members. The facility is located adjacent to the existing softball field which also recently was upgraded to an artificial turf surface. Some of the amenities will be shared between the two fields.
The field and facilities include:
• 135,000 sq. ft. artificial turf area (value engineered to 130,000)
• Game lines for NCAA soccer, IRB rugby, and ‘tick’ marks for Lacrosse
• Field lighting system for both multi-purpose and existing softball
• Covered grandstand for 1,500 spectators (uncovered, 550 capacity, phase 1)
• 3,500 sq. ft. field house which included public restrooms, ticket booth, and two team rooms with showers (value engineered to 900 sq. ft. public restroom building)
• Site accessibility and utility upgrades
Nearly 65% of WWU’s student body actively participates in Sport Clubs, Intramural Sports or NCAA activities and/or competition.
Compared to other public institutions in Washington, Western has considerably less playable field space. Existing grass fields are difficult to maintain in safe playing condition, especially during inclement weather months. With such strong participation rates there was a glaring need to both expand and extend the use of field space on campus and to develop fields that serve multiple purposes.
