Terra State to add bleachers, scoreboard with capital improvement funds

Craig Shoup - Fremont News Messenger
 

The State Controlling Board is helping Terra State beef up their sports attraction with funding for a new scoreboard and bleachers and additions for a welcome center project at Roy Klay Hall on the school's campus.

In total, the college will receive more than $130,000 for the two projects, according to a release from D.J. Swearingen, R-Huron, the Ohio House's 89th District, which covers Erie and Ottawa counties.

Part of the project, $65,249 will be used for renovations at the Student Activities Center, home of the Terra State Titans volleyball and men's and women's basketball programs, on telescopic bleachers, a scoreboard and upgrades the current basketball backstop.

“Terra State Community College is an important part of our local education and workforce development efforts in the 89th District, as well as an important part of our economy,” Swearingen said in a news release. “I appreciate the State Controlling Board’s support for these projects.” 

Jerry Buccilla, athletic director, said the money is "significant," because additions to the Student Activities Center will make the facility feel like a "collegiate" facility moving forward.

Buccilla said the upgrades to the SAC can help in recruiting 

The upgrades will include a scoreboard, shot clock, and lighting and portable bleachers that will allow the schools to move them into place for games while keeping them out of the way during the day when students use the facility.

Buccilla said the upgrades to the SAC are set to begin within the next month.

"You can feel the energy," said Buccilla of the upgrades. "There's lots to do, but there is a lot of energy."

The State Controlling Board earmarked $73,979 for a welcome center project at Roy Klay Hall that will allow for renovations of two rooms to include upgraded LED-efficient lighting, room renovations, flooring, a hallway update and ceiling replacement.

Buccilla said the Klay Hall upgrades will help in welcoming recruits to the school.

"It's adding to the enhancement of the college experience," Buccilla said. "It's going to be a quality-first impression."

Buccilla said the Klay Hall renovations are expected to begin within the next few weeks.