Multi–Sport Dome to be Built at Schoolcraft College
/Schoolcraft College officials and Universal Properties and Management, Inc. announced today that an indoor multi-sport dome will be developed on the college’s main campus in Livonia. The new world-class facility, which is scheduled to open in August of 2016, will cost about $6 million and will be completely funded by private investments.
In addition, a 25-year agreement with the Michigan Wolves-Hawks Soccer Club (MWHSC) to lease the indoor facility, the adjacent outdoor competition turf soccer field and on-site office space also was announced. This will make the dome the official home of the Club, which will use the facility during after-school hours and weekends. This elite Livonia-based organization trains and competes with more than 800 youth and young adult travel soccer players age five to 18.
“This project has great benefits for the college and the entire community,” said Schoolcraft College President Dr. Conway Jeffress. “Western Wayne County really needs a facility like this because youth and adult sports are so popular, particularly soccer. The college will be using the space for classes, our varsity sports teams and special events such as commencement ceremonies. We also are comfortable that we can rent the space during off hours at reasonable rates. Maybe the best part is that no taxpayer money will be used to construct this structure.”
The new development will be located at the southeast corner of the campus (along I-275) adjacent to the MASCO Corporation World Headquarters. That building is currently under construction and scheduled to open in May, 2016. The 110,500 sq. ft. sports dome measures 260 wide x 425 long and can be used year-round. It has the ability for large events and conventions. The dome will be surrounded by an outdoor turf stadium soccer field, parking and green space.
“I am confident this project will be successful, and we are so pleased to continue our investment in the college, City of Livonia and Western Wayne County,” said Gordon R.A. Fishman, Chairman of Universal Properties and Management, Inc.
“This is not our first project with Schoolcraft College. Last year we purchased the Seven Mile Crossing office complex on college land, so our organizations have worked very well together.”
This world class facility will be equipped with ultra-efficient LED indoor lighting and other modern technologies designed to minimize operating cost while maintaining maximum safety for athletes and spectators.
The indoor dome will be available to the community for rent, and time slots are still available. Interested parties should contact Beth LaForest at (734) 462-4416.
Follow Soccer Dome updates at http://www.schoolcraft.edu/construction-projects/soccer-dome