New track and field facility strengthens ties between UGA and Athens

From UGA Today

The newly constructed track and field complex on South Milledge Avenue, set to be officially dedicated and open on Feb. 18, will be a boon for both the campus and the community.

The 34,700-square-foot venue replaces the former South Lumpkin Street location, offering an expanded track and modern upgrades while preserving its role as a shared gathering place and a valuable resource for athletes, neighbors and the Athens community.

“We are excited about the opportunities this facility will create for our athletes, our campus and our community,” said Josh Brooks, J. Reid Parker Director of Athletics. “While it will support our student-athletes at the highest level, it will also create opportunities that will bring athletes of all ages to our campus throughout the year.”

The complex will feature the nine-lane, 400-meter Spec Towns Track with an infield long jump, triple jump and pole vault facilities. It can seat 2,500 with a capacity of up to 4,000 for select events.

The complex also features a grandstand with a press box and observation deck, along with restrooms and concessions.

Beneath the seating area, a five-lane, 100-meter warm-up track is complemented by sports medicine and recovery space, as well as dedicated storage and office areas. The $59.8 million project was funded through gifts and donations.

“This extraordinary complex places Athens among the premier track and field destinations in the country,” Brooks said. “From hosting championship-caliber meets to attracting local, regional and national events, this facility elevates the profile of our program while delivering meaningful economic and cultural benefits to the region.”

The complex will become a huge draw for future championship meets, including the GHSA State Track Meet in May 2026 and the SEC Championships in 2027, boosting the local economy through hotel bookings, local business patronage, restaurant visits and more.

Built for versatility and long-term use, the complex expands access to high-quality track facilities for the local community. As construction concludes and Georgia’s track and field team settles into new practice opportunities, the university looks forward to announcing public usage hours later this spring.

“The Classic City Track and Field Invitational in March will mark the first competition in the new facility, bringing a regional high school meet to campus and expanding access to elite facilities for local student-athletes,” said Alison McCullick, director of community relations at UGA. “In addition to competitions, the space will remain open for walking, running and everyday recreation, making it a year-round asset for the university and Athens.”