Clemson approves third phase of WestZone expansion

CLEMSON — A year ago, Clemson University officials announced a $50 million building plan that will include projects all over campus, including a $10 million indoor practice facility expected to begin construction soon inside the Tigers’ current practice complex.

Wednesday, Clemson’s Board of Trustees approved the latest phase in the building frenzy – an addition to Memorial Stadium’s WestZone complex.

It is the third and likely final major phase of the WestZone complex. The first two phases included club seating, a new football complex, a recruiting facility and plush new team locker rooms, among other amenities. Together, they cost more than $50 million.

The new phase is expected to cost $15 million, financed through private donations. Construction is expected to begin in 2013.

It includes the “One Clemson Museum” and a large oculus entrance. An oculus is a large, circular window which has been a feature of classical architecture since the 16th century. It will be centered in the middle of the new development.

The 6,000-foot oculus and One Clemson Museum exhibit space will include a lobby, interactive exhibits from the university’s “storied past,” a rooftop terrace for family gatherings on game days, a 75-to-100-seat theater, gallery space and three levels that showcase Clemson and its military and athletic history.