WIU0812 wrote:
My question would be did they design this new football stadium with the thought of perhaps adding an addition downward towards the field all the way to where track would of been if say they ever remove the track. Most designs if done correctly can be made to accommodate cost effective additions in the future and I hate when I see WIU go with a new stand set up that has no option of expansion in the event that we are ever able to move the track. The big issue there would be basically the height of the existing stadium leaving enough fall to add seating all the way to where the fencing would be now. Another issue that would have to be addressed would be the height of the first row would need to be above the players still so everyone could see which may be difficult at the current stadium level.
Great point. If you look at the east side AND the renderings for the west side, the design appears to based on the track being their for the long haul, which I agree, just doesn't make sense. Modern stadium design typically increases the seating angle to get the fans closer to the action. Typically, this equates to higher $$ ticket revenue; it's one of architecture's tricks to combat the dreaded HDTV (along with digital interactive equipment and common gathering amenities/areas within the stadium, ie bars). Old vs. New Solider Field is a perfect example -- 'nose bleed' views of the action is MUCH better today than it was before the 'spaceship' renovations. You can argue architecture and historic preservation all you want, but the views got a lot better.
The critical question for WIU athletics, as WIU0812 touches upon, is does the west side do anything to implement some of these architectural 'tricks' to combat the leather chair and HDTV, or does it simply replace an old structure with a new structure? Three questions every LNC member should as in response to being asked for donations for this project should be:
1) Does it put me, the fan, closer to the action with improved and shorter sight-lines? (Ties directly to the track and field convo)
2) What A/V improvements are being planned as part of the renovation to make the gameday experience more immersive?
3) What other amenities are going to be provided to justify the corresponding increase in ticket cost for the premium level season ticket holder?
That third one is why I'm very critical of the new leather seating at Western Hall. There was a pretty substantial increase in the price of those seats Y-O-Y and the only benefit added was that you sit on a leather seat instead of a plastic one. The "unintended consequence" has been, particularly during women's games, that the center sections appear empty while your regular, loyal fanbase has been pushed up and out.