Are We Allowed Into the New Tennis Facility?

Reported by Emma Bach

Construction for a new George Fox University (GFU) indoor tennis facility at Austin Sports Complex began in the summer of 2017. However, the tennis facility still hasn’t opened for use, as GFU has yet to acquire an occupancy permit.

In order to gain an occupancy permit, inspections by the City of Newberg must be completed once the facility is fully finished.  This is continually being worked towards.

The building is essentially finished, except for the electrical work. GFU decided to have Plant Services’ electricians work on the facility instead of contracting the electrical work out to another party.

“Our electric department is working hard to finish up so we can get temporary occupancy,” Jesse Dillow, the director of grounds at GFU, said. “Final occupancy will be given once the landscaping is finished.”

The electrical department had a large amount of work due to the moving of Villa House, and the construction of the Hadlock Student Center.  This has led to a continual pushback on the opening date for the new tennis facility.

The facility includes six tennis courts and is covered in PVC fabric. This will provide protection and space for the athletes and allow them to practice or participate in matches whether rain or shine.  It is also designed to be both energy-efficient and thermal-efficient.

The facility is also intended to be used by the GFU track and field teams and the GFU student body. The Austin Sports Complex already contains a turf field, and GFU hopes the new tennis facility will greatly benefit the tennis teams and athletics overall.