The new stadium for Drake and Des Moines Public Schools has a name
Noelle Alviz-GranseeThe new stadium for Des Moines Public Schools and Drake University has a name.
Drake University President Marty Martin announced to the Des Moines School Board on Tuesday that it will be known as the Mediacom Stadium. Set to open this fall, the stadium will be the new home field for Drake's mens and womens soccer teams, as well as Des Moines' football and soccer teams and other school activities.
“This is a unique partnership between Drake University and Des Moines Public Schools,” Ed Pardini, senior vice president of Mediacom Communications, said in a news release. “Student athletes, marching band, cheerleading and dance team members, and fans will form lifelong memories in this venue. We are proud to associate the Mediacom brand with this exciting stadium.”
The name is recognition of Mediacom's "leadership-level" support to Drake for the project, the release says.
More:Des Moines Public Schools approves agreement with Drake to build $19.5 million stadium
The stadium's playing field will be known as the Albaugh Field for contributions from local businessman and billionaire Dennis Albaugh and family. The main entrance will be named the Prairie Meadows West Gate for financial support from Prairie Meadows Racetrack and Casino.
Naming rights will be in effect for a limited number of years.
Located on the Drake campus near the corner of Forest Avenue and 25th Street east of the Knapp Center, the $19.5 million stadium is designed to seat 4,000 spectators.
Des Moines Public Schools will pay about $15 million from the sales tax fund SAVE (Secure an Advanced Vision for Education). Drake committed to fundraising the rest of the costs. The university donated the land for the project and plans to provide parking and infrastructure.
“Drake is proud to partner with Des Moines Public Schools to create a top-tier athletics venue for the enjoyment of DMPS and Drake students, families, and fans,” Martin said in the release. “We are grateful for the generous support of Mediacom, the Albaugh family, and Prairie Meadows.”
Noelle Alviz-Gransee is a breaking news reporter at the Des Moines Register. Follow her on Twitter @NoelleHannika or email her at NAlvizGransee@registermedia.com.