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THE USDA IMPACT
The transformation of the PLEX will begin as early as spring 2022
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The Huntington University Board of Trustees has approved a $13.1 million project that will transform the Merillat Complex & Fieldhouse (PLEX) into a best-inclass athletics complex by adding a third performance gym, updating Platt Arena, creating new training and wellness spaces, and recreating the lobby footprint. Merillat PLEX - Athletic Complex Addition and Renovation Exterior
With plans to break ground on this project in spring 2022, HU’s leadership worked diligently to secure financing through the USDA, which would provide funding with a 35-year repayment period at an interest rate approximately 50% lower than current market rates. In 2021, HU was approved for a $12.3 million loan from the USDA. The beneficial terms of the USDA loan positions the University to build repayments into the operations budget in future years without reducing resources for other programs.
Originally part of the Step Forward Comprehensive Campaign, the transformation of the PLEX became a popular area of engagement for donors and friends. This created the space for HU to rethink the scope of the PLEX project, expanding it from its original $4.6 million investment to a significantly larger investment that will impact the entire campus community.
“Through extended conversations with University athletic staff and students, alumni, and community members, it became clear the importance of this Huntington University ©2021 project to many of our constituents. This will be the largest campus expansion project since the completion of Dowden Science Hall in 2005,” said Dr. Sherilyn Emberton. “The Forester athletic program has grown to nearly 300 student-athletes and competes in 18 NAIA programs. The expansion of the existing health and wellness facility meets current as well as anticipates future needs for students at Huntington University at the Huntington, Indiana, location.” HU athletics has experienced a 32% increase in student athletes in the past decade. “I think the growth of our athletic programs and success of our student-athletes necessitates the expansion of the PLEX,” said Herb Schumm, the chairman of the Board.
Merillat PLEX - Athletic Complex Addition and Renovation Softball Press box Huntington University ©2021
Merillat PLEX - Athletic Complex Addition and Renovation Exterior Huntington University ©2021 E
Merillat PLEX - Athletic Complex Addition and Renovation Multi-purpose Event Gym Huntington University ©2021
