Texas Tech University Athletics
New Turf Being Installed at Jones Stadium
June 30, 1999 | General
June 30, 1999
LUBBOCK, Texas - Work has begun on a new Astroturf surface for Jones Stadium Texas Tech officials announced today. The Astroturf is scheduled to be completed by August 27 and ready for the home opener on Sept. 18 against North Texas at 6p.m.
"This is a very important improvement for our football program," Athletic Director Gerald Myers said. "It will give our players one of the best surfaces to play and practice on in the Big 12 conference. I am very happy that we have been able to accomplish this for next season."
The Astroturf being placed in Jones Stadium is the 12-2000 model and newest type offered by the company. It was specifically designed for NFL and major college stadiums. The turf features a double layer of padding which is considered the most shock absorbent Astroturf has ever produced. It consists of a bottom layer of nearly inch thick rubber and a layer of foam on top of it. Furthermore, the turf surface is softer and, therefore, much less abrasive for players than previous models.
Another significant feature is that the markings on the field will be inlayed with colored turf, instead of painted into it. This will create a field that is much more visual stunning and will not harden in spots due to years of being painted over.
The first field of this type was installed in 1997 at the Meadowlands for the New York Giants and Jets.
The project is being completed by Southwest Recreational Inc. of Austin, Texas, at a cost of approximately $891,000. It features an eight year warranty.
