Long Beach : Veterans Stadium to Undergo $2.9-Million Renovation

The Long Beach City College Board of Trustees has approved a $2.9-million renovation of Veterans Memorial Stadium in compliance with a 1986 agreement with the city.

Under terms of the agreement, the college, which now rents the 38-year-old facility for a nominal fee, will pay for the renovations in exchange for beneficial title which, while retaining city ownership of the stadium, will give the college full control of its use.

According to James Kossler, vice president of administrative services, the improvements will include installing a new electrical system and lighting, reinforcing walls for earthquake safety, adding new concession booths and kitchens, remodeling the press box to add a second entrance and installing new ramps for the handicapped.

Kossler said the work will begin in about two weeks and is expected to be completed within eight months. In addition, he said, the college plans to spend about $300,000 on new seats for the stadium. The renovation is not expected to interfere with the stadium’s normal use, Kossler said.