Event InformationURI's New Outdoor Track Groundbreaking Ceremony celebrates the construction of the University's new outdoor track and field facility, which will provide a state-of-the-art competition venue for URI student-athletes and serve as a community resource for Rhode Islanders. The new track is part of a major investment in athletics and recreation facilities provided by the state of Rhode Island.The project, supported by state funding, includes a new 200-seat bleacher grandstand with an accessible lift to a new press box. The nine-lane track (48" wide lanes), with full-pour track surfacing, will be certified as an IAAFClass 2 dedicated track facility. The field will include multiple jump runways, including two long/triple jump runways with four sand pits, two pole vault runways with four pole vault boxes, and two high jump areas; a separate throws facility for combined hammer/discus, javelin, and shot put; and a new digital-display scoreboard.WelcomeThorr D. Bjorn Vice President and Director of AthleticsRemarksLily Saul ’26 Early Childhood Education major, Montoursville, PennsylvaniaThe Honorable Daniel J. McKee Governor, State of Rhode IslandThe Honorable K. Joseph Shekarchi Speaker, Rhode Island House of RepresentativesMarc B. Parlange President, University of Rhode IslandAdam Melnick ’26 Business Supply Chain Management major, Narragansett, Rhode IslandClosingThorr D. Bjorn Vice President and Director of AthleticsGroundbreaking and ReceptionA brief reception will follow the program, with light refreshments available under the tent.Accessibility: The University of Rhode Island strives to provide inclusive access to events. If you need a reasonable accommodation or have a question about accessing this event, please call 401.874.9455 at least five business days in advance. For TTY assistance, please call the R.I. Relay Service at 711.