Aurora University has made its plan for an athletic park on the far north side of Montgomery larger, including a domed practice facility.
Village trustees saw the plan for the first time this week, discussing some of its points. Because it was the first reading, the Village Board did not vote on approval of the plan or on annexing a piece of property to add to the park.
The university has spent about $3 million on purchasing the total of about 90 acres for the park, which would run on the south side of Jericho Road, near the intersection with Edgelawn Drive.
University officials are quick to point out that the entire project depends on fundraising in the coming years but said the park is needed.
“We feel the time is right to ensure the 700-plus student-athletes have the powerful home-field advantage for years to come,” said Carmella Moran, vice president for administration at the university. “The Spartans are a sense of pride to the university and fans across the country.”
Moran said all buildings would utilize the red brick, black wrought iron and bronze signage to provide unity and definition throughout the athletic park.
The Montgomery Planning Commission approved an initial plan for the park after the university purchased 45 acres that used to be the privately run Wolf Run golf course.
Since that time, the university had a chance to buy about 45 more acres to add to the park, making the total about 90 acres, although officials said about 80 acres are usable, with the rest needed for drainage.
“During the next phase of the project, Aurora University will expend another $3 million for site work, circulation and parking improvements necessary to support future construction of softball, tennis and lacrosse/soccer facilities,” said Steven McFarland, vice president for university communications.
The university has to go before the Planning Commission for all of its special-use designations in the park.
Village Trustee Stan Bond asked what the height of the dome could be. Officials said it could be anywhere between 75 and 100 feet.
“The actual dome will start some 180 feet from the nearest property line,” said Bruce Goldsmith, an attorney for the university.
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McFarland said the dome would be utilized to “accommodate an indoor regulation football, soccer and lacrosse turf field that is usable year-round.”
The athletic park, in its first phase, would include the indoor facility, as well as soccer, lacrosse and softball fields. The school would continue to play its football games at Vago Field on the main campus.
“I am very excited to welcome Aurora University to the community,” said Montgomery Mayor Matt Brolley.
Judy Pochel is a freelancer. Beacon-News reporter Steve Lord contributed.