Since it's so quiet on the list these days, here's a good off-season
story.
 
This morning's T-U reports that RPI will embark upon a major renovation of
athletic facilities to include a renovation of the Houston Fieldhouse and
the construction of additional buildings.  While the project would
probably rank on par with the replacement of the weight room at a place
like Wisconsin, for Rensselaer it's a big deal.
 
Athletic director Bob Ducatte said his department is working on a plan
that would take 5 to 15 years to complete and cost several millions of
dollars.  The plan would require approval from the school's president and
the board of trustees.  Renovations would be funded mainly be alumni
contributions.
 
Th plan would entail reconfiguring the stands to form a complete oval
around the ice surface.  The result would be to bring the fans closer to
the ice, and increase seating capacity.  The plan would necessitate the
closing in of the seats on the east side of the Fieldhouse and the
installation of bleachers in the area the band currently occupies.
Ducatte inidicated the ice making system would also be replaced.
 
The last time the Fieldhouse was renovated was 1982.
 
The plan also includes the construction of a building to be added to the
Fieldhouse to house a 200 meter indoor track and a basketball gymnasium
with maple hardwood floors.
 
And maybe even new concession stands!
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Brian Morris               RPI Engineers--Off for the Summer
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