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Zoning Board Clears the Way for Monmouth University Stadium

The West Long Branch Zoning Board cleared the way for construction of the Monmouth University Stadium at its hearing last night. The board voted unanimously 5-0 in favor of the project, which will bring a welcome upgrade to the athletic home of more than half of the University’s 535 NCAA Division I student-athletes. In addition to football, the men’s and women’s lacrosse and track and field programs will call the Monmouth Stadium home.

When complete, the $15 million Monmouth Stadium will provide seating for 4,200 to comfortably accommodate students, alumni, and fans in a family-friendly facility. The project will bring a bowl-like look and feel to Kessler Field with seats that stretch from goal line to goal line, housed in a beautiful brick structure designed to complement the University’s Multipurpose Activity Center. The plans include more than 800 chair-back seats, a multimedia center, an updated press box, new concession areas, an expanded ticket office, and permanent restroom facilities.

“The impact of this project will be felt by a broad constituency,” said Monmouth University President Paul R. Brown. “Beyond the obvious benefit to our current and future student-athletes, the Monmouth Stadium will offer an enhanced fan experience for alumni and friends in the community, as well as a boost to the local economy that will come along with the opportunities to host regional and national competitions, in addition to league play.” The project also serves as a nod to the growth and success the University has enjoyed in NCAA Division I competition.

“Our student-athletes have enjoyed continued success and national recognition,” said Marilyn McNeil, vice president and director of athletics. “The Monmouth Stadium will be a showcase for that success and a training ground for what we hope to accomplish in the future.” With more than 70 percent of the private funds raised to support the $15 million project, construction on the Monmouth Stadium could begin after the final home game of the 2016 football season, provided the remaining funds are raised and all necessary approvals and building permits are received. Monmouth is expected to open the 2017 football season with a home game against Lafayette College on Sept. 2.

For more information or to support the Monmouth University Stadium, contact Jon Roos at 732-263-5189 or jroos@monmouth.edu.