Dakota State University is developing plans for an athletics training facility that could include a massive inflatable dome.
The Madison-based university is in the midst of construction of several new sports facilities, including a new football stadium and athletics event center. On Tuesday, school officials announced a new phase of the project to include a new practice facility.
The project is spurred by a $7 million donation from philanthropist T. Denny Sanford, according to a press release. The university will look at a variety of plan options, but the initial consideration is a seasonal dome facility.
“Phase II is a huge step forward for our athletics department,” said Jeff Dittman, Athletics Director at DSU. “An indoor facility, such as a dome, will be a tremendous training aid for multiple DSU sports as well as providing a competition venue for various high school and youth sports tournaments. It will also be a competition center for DSU and girl’s high school softball programs throughout the region in the spring. These teams that travel to Madison to practice or compete will provide a strong benefit to the community businesses as well.”
One of the options DSU is considering is an inflatable dome measuring 327 feet wide, 600 feet long and 100 feet tall. University officials say if they move forward with this option, it would be the largest inflatable dome facility in the United States.
The facility would be placed over the current track complex, providing an indoor training environment November through April. Community groups and teams would also have access to the facility.
The practice facility could be ready for use as early as late 2025, the release said.