Memphis facility projects remain on course

Construction of the football program’s indoor practice facility is tentatively set to be completed by mid-summer.

Work on improvements to Elma Roane Fieldhouse is expected to begin in the next couple of months.

Plans to expand the Leftwich Tennis Center also are moving forward.

Despite the financial impact felt by the University of Memphis because of the coronavirus pandemic, the school’s facility projects remain on course, athletics director Laird Veatch said.

“Everything is moving right along on time and in budget – the two wonderful things you want to hear when you’re dealing with those kinds of projects,” he told The Commercial Appeal last week. “(The indoor practice facility) is progressing really well, and it’s going to make a remarkable difference for our program – not just in recruiting but just the everyday operation. It’s going to be wonderful. The Leftwich project with the city and the Elma Roane project, for our women’s basketball and women’s volleyball programs, we’re very excited about those as well.”

In April, Veatch revealed a projected $2.5 million budgetary shortfall for fiscal year 2020, primarily because of the cancellation of the NCAA Tournament. But, Veatch said, given the way public institutions plan for and finance facility projects, they are not in jeopardy of being put on hold or falling through completely.

“It can be challenging in this kind of environment,” he said. “(But) those kinds of projects typically come from earmarked dollars that have already been specifically set aside. So  they don’t necessarily impact your annual operating expenses. And they have long-term implications. As much as possible when we’re going through a crisis like this, you really want to do your best to maintain the long-term health and well-being of the program.”

The indoor practice facility is estimated to cost $10.6 million. The bidding process for work on Elma Roane Fieldhouse – which includes improvements to the main arena, western corridor, bathrooms, concession stands, press area and camera station – is set to begin June 23. The Leftwich Tennis Center expansion, which will include 32 courts (12 indoor, 20 outdoor), has a $19 million price tag attached. 

Reach sports writer Jason Munz at jason.munz@commercialappeal.com or on Twitter @munzly.