On Sunday, Aug. 26, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute will host a groundbreaking ceremony to launch the first phase of the East Campus Athletic Village.

The most extensive athletic construction project in the Institute’s history, the new athletic village will dramatically improve campus athletic facilities, expand athletic opportunities, and enhance the overall student experience at Rensselaer.

The event will kick off at 10 a.m. with remarks from Eddie Ade Knowles, vice president for student life; Myles Brand ’64, president of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and Rensselaer trustee; Erik Swanson, President of the Rensselaer Union; Samuel Heffner ’56, chairman of the Rensselaer Board of Trustees; and Rensselaer President Shirley Ann Jackson.

Immediately following the remarks, President Jackson and the other featured speakers will “break ground” at what will be the 50-yard line of the new turf field.

The new athletic village is a core component of The Rensselaer Plan. The facilities will meet the needs and expectations of current students — more than 75 percent of whom participate in intramurals, clubs sports, or varsity team sports — and prospective student-athletes.

The East Campus Athletic Village will include a multipurpose stadium with field turf, a 1,200-seat basketball arena, improvements to the Houston Field House, a strength and conditioning center, an administrative center, indoor pool, outdoor tennis courts, and indoor sports facility complete with track and tennis courts. Public spaces will include an atrium, lobby, café, and pro shop.

Following the groundbreaking ceremony, Rensselaer students, alumni, faculty, staff, family members, and members of the local community will be invited to attend a celebratory tailgate party, which will include free giveaways, food, and live entertainment.

 East Campus Athletic Village Virtual Tour