Construction Update #2

Nov. 3, 2005

Approximately one month and a Hurricane Wilma after construction began at Mark Light Field, things are going along smoothly. Here is what has been going on….

• Mark Light’s signature palm trees in left and right field have been removed temporarily to make way for front-end loaders, which will be used to help install new light poles.
• What were once light poles are now just simply poles, waiting to be removed, sans light fixtures.
• Dugouts are literally being dug out on the home and visitor sides.
• While it doesn’t look like it now, the rubble behind the backstop will be home to some of the finest seats in the house, three rows of premium seating.
• Although the grandstand structure will remain at Mark Light Field, steps are being made right now to reinforce the structure per zoning and safety standards.
• The stands along the first and third-base lines next to both dugouts have been removed as part of the construction process.

But where will the ‘Canes go for fall practice? The answer was nearby Columbus High School, but Hurricane Wilma ruined those plans. UM began fall practice on Friday, Nov. 4 at Mark Light Field and will continue to do so until Nov. 19. From there its on to winter workouts and the 2006 season two months later.