The plans for the new recreation fields are in and are expected to be ready for the Fall 2011 school year and intramural season.

“As of right now, not much construction on the fields is being done, mostly just demolition,” Kim Rufra, associate director at the Student Recreation and Wellness Center, said. ”The architects are still talking about the setup of the fields.”

According to the plans, the proposal includes two lit recreational fields, two tennis courts, a basketball court and an irrigation and drainage system to keep the turf in good condition.

The demolition of the small group dorms cost $500,000 and the cost to build the new recreation fields is estimated at $750,000, Rufra said.

Before the demolition of the of the old freshman dorms, there wasn’t enough room for the fields but that has changed. The fields will be located across the street from the Student Recreation and Wellness Center on Summit Street near the Kent State University Ice Arena.

The new fields’ location is a lot closer than the Allerton Sports Complex, located behind the Student Recreation and Wellness Center, where the outdoor intramural sports are played. Rufra said with the new fields being closer to the residence halls, she would like to see more spectators at the events and ultimately more people getting involved with intramurals.

“I love the idea of recreational fields being right on campus,” said Tristan Lysowski, a senior education major. “With nice fields and an irrigation system, I’m sure more people will want to play on the fields, but unfortunately for me, I won’t be around to see it.”

To date, intramural flag football is played at the softball fields at the Allerton Sports Complex. The size of the Allerton softball fields is only half that of a regulation-size flag football field, which has raised complaints, Rufra said.

“The field will be a compliment to the rec center,” Rufra said. “They will be safe, championship-caliber fields that will represent Kent State well.”

Contact Darian Thomas at [email protected].