Student-funded improvements are under way near Sorority Row on the University of Louisiana at Lafayette campus. A paved, lighted 175-space parking lot is being created that will include covered bicycle racks to accommodate 40 bikes.
The parking lot, on Coliseum Road, is adjacent to playing fields designated for intramural and club sports.
"These changes are part of an ongoing process of improvement for the campus," said Bill Crist, director of UL Lafayette's Office of Facility Management.
The parking lot and lighting are expected to be complete by mid-May.
More improvements are planned for the playing fields.
Dave Suter, director of recreational sports, said improvements to these playing fields are also part of the Master Plan. "We're looking forward to redesigning the fields to better meet students' needs," he said.
Future improvements may include artificial turf, "which would benefit intramural softball, flag football and soccer, as well as club sports such as rugby, lacrosse, men's soccer," said Suter.
"We would also like to add a structure, perhaps a field house, to store equipment and provide some office space," he added.
The projects are part of the University's Master Plan, which is supported by students through self-assessed fees. The plan will guide the development of the campus over the next decade.