Commerce, TX – East Texas A&M University recently kicked off construction for a new Event Center, marking a significant milestone for the university and the surrounding community. The groundbreaking ceremony drew representatives from various sectors, showcasing the center’s importance as a hub for athletics and events in Northeast Texas.
At the ceremony, Jim Curry, the university’s Athletics Director, emphasized the center’s role in boosting growth not only for the university but also for Commerce and Hunt County. The 65,000 square-foot facility will serve as the home for East Texas A&M’s basketball and volleyball teams and is expected to host a variety of events, from graduations to concerts.
Designed by the architecture firm Gensler, the state-of-the-art center will include approximately 2,500 stadium seats, training rooms, multiple locker rooms, and advanced technological setups for events. The design aims to reflect both elegance and strength, drawing inspiration from the “grace of a lion in motion.”
Surrounding the Event Center will be a plaza featuring an outdoor entertainment space, a restaurant, and ample parking. Future plans also include retail and entertainment spaces, designed to foster a lively atmosphere for students and community members.
Molly Jacobson, Commerce’s Assistant City Manager, spoke about the Event Center’s potential to create jobs and enhance the local economy. This investment aligns with recent trends showing that new sports and entertainment facilities can significantly boost nearby businesses. For instance, a study conducted by the Urban Institute found that cities with multipurpose venues often see increased restaurant revenues and foot traffic.
As East Texas A&M transitions to NCAA Division I athletics, the Event Center is set to enhance the university’s profile, providing essential resources for attracting student-athletes and fostering a competitive atmosphere. Jordyn Newsome, president of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, expressed excitement about what the center will mean for Lion Athletics, stating it’s a place for university pride.
In a moment reflecting on the community’s unity, Commissioner Chris Grant of the Southland Conference remarked on East Texas A&M’s readiness to become a leader in collegiate sports. His enthusiasm echoed sentiments shared by several community leaders at the ceremony, signifying a collective belief in the region’s potential.
With the Event Center, the future looks bright for East Texas A&M and the broader Commerce community. As it rises, so will opportunities for collaboration, events, and engagement, creating a lively center for both education and entertainment. The vision of a gathering space, as mentioned by designer Ana Kurzan, is not just about buildings; it’s about building connections that foster community spirit. It’s a great time to be associated with the Lions as they embark on this exciting journey.
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Source linkTexas A&M University-Commerce, East Texas A&M University, Higher Education, Southland Conference, Sports, Division I, NCAA, basketball arena
