Thursday, January 24, 2013

The city of Pittsburg has agreed to contribute $5 million toward an indoor event center and track to be built at Pittsburg State University.

The Pittsburg City Commission voted on Tuesday to donate $1.5 million up front and $175,000 per year for 20 years from the city's revolving loan fund. The $17 million center will include a 300-meter track and an 80-yard practice field.

The city will have a lease agreement to share use of the center.

The Joplin Globe reports university officials asked the city invest $7.6 million in the center. The city approved the smaller amount to keep its revolving loan fund stable.

A team including city, university and the Convention & Visitors Bureau representatives will maintain a schedule of use for large events.