Monmouth University Stadium To Get $5 Million Upgrade

By Christopher Sheldon

The West Long Branch Planning Board recently approved Monmouth University’s planned renovations to Kessler Field at Monmouth Stadium.

The $5 million project, which is set to begin at the end of the 2013 football season, includes the construction of a four-story building behind the Monmouth Stadium stands. Monmouth’s football, men’s and women’s lacrosse teams and men’s and women’s outdoor track and field teams all use Kessler Field.

"I am thrilled to know that Monmouth Stadium will experience this upgrade," Monmouth University Vice President and Director of Athletics Dr. Marilyn McNeil said in a release. “It is needed to enhance the recruitment of all of our students as well as meeting the needs of our friends in the press and our fans, locally and across the nation. We look forward to sharing the same pride for the stadium as we do for the MAC."

The new building will house indoor restrooms and concession stands on the first floor. Plans for the second floor have not been finalized, but the third floor of the building will house a press box, scoreboard operations, radio booths, camera and streaming video operations and coaching booths. The fourth floor will feature camera wells, a broadcast booth along with other multi-purpose space.

"This is a great first step, and a much needed upgrade to our football facility at Monmouth University,” Monmouth University head football coach Kevin Callahan said in a release. “The building will enhance fan experience as well as provide more resources for the football program and our players. I am looking forward to the start of construction after the 2013 season."

The project has been funded through private donations and has already substantial commitments from donors including the Jules L. Plangere Jr. Family Foundation, Inc, according to a release from the university.

The football team's 2013 season begins on Aug. 29 when the Hawks hit the road to take on Montana State. The Hawks' first home game will come on Sept. 14 when Monmouth hosts Lehigh University.