MSU approves replacement of sports complex turf

The five-year-old artificial turf has had some performance issues, requiring more maintenance and repairs than expected under its eight-year warranty.

The university’s Board of Governors at its March 10 meeting approved an agreement with Montreal-based FieldTurf to replace the turf later this spring. Though not the original installer, FieldTurf has agreed to replace the turf at a reduced cost.

An initial payment of $110,000 will be made at the time of installation, provided by the facility’s namesake, Robert W. Plaster. The remaining cost will be paid by gifts and money from Intercollegiate Athletics over five years at no interest.

“The field was beginning to demand an inordinate amount of upkeep and maintenance,” said MSU President Michael Nietzel in a news release. “With all of the activities that occur on that surface – football, field hockey, soccer, track, intramurals, physical education classes, band practices and performances – it is important to have it fully functional and meeting all performance specifications.”[[In-content Ad]]