CHENEY, Wash. – Eastern Washington University (EWU) has officially taken a major step toward transforming its athletics landscape with the groundbreaking of a brand-new track and field facility — a project long championed by students, coaches, and local supporters.
The current track, long overdue for modernization, has served as a practice space but has fallen short of collegiate competition standards. For years, EWU athletes have been traveling off-campus for meets, placing them at a disadvantage compared to rival institutions. The new facility aims to change that, giving Eastern’s athletes a home-field advantage for the first time in decades.
The event drew a mix of excitement and emotion as leaders, alumni, and student-athletes gathered with shovels in hand. EWU President Shari McMann emphasized that the track will serve far beyond sports performance.
“For me, it’s about bringing community in and having people that may have not ever planned to go walk on the eastern campus, a chance to come here and think about the opportunity to go to college here,” McMann said.
Her message underscored EWU’s broader mission: using athletics as a bridge between the university and surrounding communities. Plans are already being discussed to host youth track camps, high school meets, intramural events, and public wellness programs once the facility opens.
Graduate student and track athlete Rhiannon Davies said the upgrade will be transformational for current competitors.
“Excitement fills me because we use this venue as a practice facility and just the milestones that we’ve reached within practice to go and compete the way that we do within our conference is just exceptional,” Davies said.
Coaches echoed her excitement, noting that a competitive-grade facility will improve recruitment, training efficiency, and athlete safety. With upgraded surfaces, digital timing technology, and expanded seating, EWU expects to attract more spectators and potentially host conference championships — bringing tourism dollars into the Cheney area.
In a public statement shared on Facebook, the university thanked those who helped fuel the campaign, stating that “the project would not have been possible without the passion and generosity of donors, alumni and community partners.”
Construction is expected to move in phases, with the track surface and spectator stands likely to be prioritized first.
EWU is exploring partnerships with Cheney and Spokane-area school districts for shared programming and event hosting.
Local businesses anticipate increased foot traffic from visiting teams, spectators, and event participants once the facility begins hosting competitions.
What began as a dream years ago is finally materializing into a legacy project — one that will not only elevate EWU athletics but also serve as a rallying point for the entire region.
Originally reported by Non Stop Local News.
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