TROY – Troy University’s “Trojan Arena” has been named by “Learning By Design” as an outstanding project in its Spring 2014 Architectural Review Showcase.
In association with the American Institute of Architects Academy, the Council of Educational Facility Planners International, and the American Architectural Foundation Design for Learning Council, Ed Spaces and others, “Learning By Design” recognizes some of the most exceptional education design projects in the United States.
“We are delighted that Trojan Arena has been recognized as one of the best facilities of its kind in the nation,” said Troy Chancellor Dr. Jack Hawkins Jr. “This award is testament to the vision of our trustees and staff and it reflects the talent of our architectural partners Goodwyn, Mills and Cawood. Through intense ‘value engineering’ the end result exceeded the financial investment we made in the Arena.”
Montgomery architectural firm Goodwyn, Mills and Cawood, Inc., in cooperation with Populous, spearheaded the design of the 5,500-seat $40 million arena that has received other national and international awards for its design and use of technology.
The design team included Bill Wallace, principal, and Freddie Lynn, Jr., project manager, both of Goodwyn, Mills and Caywood, and Populous’ Jim Swords.
“In the 18 months since it’s opening, Trojan Arena has proven to be a tremendous asset for Troy Athletics,” said John Hartwell, TROY’s Director of Athletics. “Its ‘wow factor’ is a huge recruiting advantage for us not just in men’s and women’s basketball and volleyball, but for all of our sports. We certainly believe the addition of Trojan Arena has elevated the stature of our Athletics’ program, and will pay dividends for many years to come.”
Trojan Arena is a 126,465 square-foot multipurpose sports complex that serves as the home of the University’s NCAA Division I basketball, volleyball and track programs. It also serves as a convocation, commencement and special events venue. The arena features a three-tiered rotunda at the main entrance that leads directly to the building’s centerpiece, the Troy University Sports Hall of Fame and two 767-square-foot video boards at either end of the arena bowl, and a simulated court area on the surrounding concourse enhance the fan experience in the facility.
Four concession stands and a food court, in addition to club-level and seven luxury suites, are included in the building, which features state-of-the-art audio and lighting systems. A training room, weight room and a practice court is also housed in the building. An additional 600-seat floor capacity expands total seating exceeding 6,000.
Trojan Arena opened Sept. 8, 2012, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The Trojans first game in the facility was Nov. 9, 2012 – a 56-53 win over Mississippi State.
HOAR Construction, Inc. was the general contractor for the construction of the arena.
