Ground Is Broken To Build The New 'Tiger Arena'
TOWSON, Md. (WJZ) -- It's been a long time coming, and Tuesday construction will finally start on the new athletic venue for Towson University.
Andrea Fujii gives us a look inside the new "Tiger Arena."
After years of planning, construction will start on Towson University's Tiger Arena right across from Johnny Unitas Stadium.
A simulation shows what the new 5,200 seat, $68 million facility will look like.
"This is the next logical step to have a true convocation area where we can stage graduations, concerts, be a cultural place, but also a place where first-class athletics can be staged," said Mike Waddell, Towson Athletic Director.
Towson graduate and current NBA player Gary Neal wouldn't have missed the momentous occasion.
"To have a new arena that's kind of your number one sales pitch, you can upgrade your student athletes," said Neal, San Antonio Spurs.
Though the smaller Towson Center Arena has been home to the Tigers for years, Alysha McCreary is excited to play volleyball in the new one.
"It motivates you to become better, have that feeling, 'OK we can do this, we can win,'" said McCreary.
The arena was originally going to be on the other side of campus, closer to homes, but was moved because of neighbors' noise concerns.
Now there's just excitement for the next phase in Towson athletics.
"I think it'll do a lot for us in the community and we're going to be taken more seriously," said Elisabeth Herzfeld, Towson golfer.
Tiger Arena is expected to be done by May 2013.
The current arena will then be used for sports practice.
