Concord University hosting ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate gym bleacher makeover

ATHENS, WV (WVNS) — Earlier today, Concord University (CU) announced that it will be holding a ribbon cutting ceremony to commemorate the updated bleachers installed in the Carter Center.

The bleachers were gifted to CU by HES Custodial Services in the form of a donation. A special sign will be presented and refreshments will follow the ribbon cutting in the lobby. The celebration, which the public is welcomed to attend, will be held on August 21, 2024 at 11 a.m.

The bleacher project began on February 29 and lasted less than two months, reaching completion on April 3. The bleachers that were previously in place were in need of a makeover, as they were deemed unattractive and a safety risk. The improved bleachers are motorized to provide easier operation. This improvement further modernizes the Carter Center and betters the playing atmosphere for sporting events.

Also, upgrades to the gym have a large impact on athletic program recruitment at CU. The donation of the bleachers denotes another milestone in the nearly two decade partnership between HES Facilities Management and the university.

We are thrilled to contribute to Concord University’s continued growth and success. Our longstanding partnership with Concord University has been very rewarding, and we are proud to support their mission of providing an outstanding educational environment.

Russell Leboff | Regional Vice President, HES Custodial Services

The project was also made possible by Rich Strayer with Maffei Strayer Furnishings. The Physical Plant staff at CU remained involved throughout the job, saving the university money during the completion.

The Physical Plant team never ceases to amaze me with their can-do spirit and willingness to contribute to each and every time a need arises.

Steve Miller | Director of Facilities, Concord University

After the removal of the old bleachers, electricity was run for the automatic bleachers, and the team continued to help by getting the new equipment into the gym.

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