GREENEVILLE, Tenn. --- Since the rebirth of the Tusculum University track & field program in 2018, there has been one thing the Pioneers have lacked… a home.

Eight years later, the dream has become a reality with Friday's ground-breaking ceremonies for a state-of-the-art track & field complex, which will be located adjacent to nearby Tusculum City Park.

The 5.6 million facility will be used by the TU track & field program in conjunction with Greene County track and lacrosse student-athletes.

The eight-lane track will have areas for jumps, throws, pole vault and the grass infield will be able to host high school lacrosse. The facility will include seating for over 500 fans, a press box, lights, concession stands, dressing rooms, restrooms and warm-up areas. The project is expected to be completed in 11 months.

"This is a historic day for Tusculum University, our community and Greene County overall," said Josh Ealy, Tusculum Vice President of Athletics. "A lot of work and preparation have gone into this by many. I am excited for our student-athletes as we expand the program and offer more opportunities and resources for our kids."

Since 2018, the Pioneers have been practicing on-campus or have used the track facility at Hardin Park, which is a 15-minute commute across town. The new facility will be a short walk for the Pioneers and will also allow Tusculum to host home meets and events.

"Our program has been successful at the national level already and this facility will allow us to grow and recruit top-notch student-athletes to our community," Ealy added. "Having a home facility is a game-changer for us. This allows Tusculum to bring teams to our community and this facility will help grow the sport in our county schools."

The facility is being built by BurWil Construction Company of Bristol.