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Work begins on Saluki Way

BY ADAM TESTA, THE SOUTHERN

Monday, August 18, 2008 11:22 PM CDT

CARBONDALE - With preliminary work beginning on the Saluki Way project this week, excitement continues to build in the Southern Illinois University Carbondale community.

Phase One of the project, which begins this week, includes moving various fields around and the construction of two new tennis courts, said Jason King, associate athletic director for facilities. This phase is expected to be completed by the end of fall.

"We've talked about this for a long time," he said. "To see this get started and come to fruition is exciting."

When completed, the Saluki Way project will create a new core campus, including a new football stadium, an improved SIU Arena and other infrastructure for the university, both for educational and athletic uses. Groundbreaking on the new stadium is expected to begin in March.

University spokesman Rod Sievers said excitement is also spreading throughout the entire SIUC campus, not just the athletic department. Fundraising and planning efforts are continuing as the project moves forward, he said.

Both King and Sievers compared the advancement of the Saluki Way project to a popular children's game - dominoes.

"This is the first domino that has to fall," King said. "We've hit that first goal. Our plan is to keep moving forward, hit our deadlines and make this a reality."

adam.testa@thesouthern.com / 351-5031