Long vacant fieldhouse gets overhaul at Louisiana State University

The Huey P. Long Fieldhouse on the Baton Rouge campus is being renovated to house classrooms, labs, and other spaces for the College of Human Sciences and Education.

After sitting vacant for decades on the Louisiana State University campus in Baton Rouge, the Huey P. Long Fieldhouse is undergoing a multi-million-dollar renovation.

The Baton Rouge Advocate reports that the improvements will be the building's first full renovation since it was built in 1932.

The building will house classrooms, labs, and other spaces for the College of Human Sciences and Education.

A website detailing renovation plans says the renovated fieldhouse "will serve as the heart and headquarters of [the College of Human Sciences and Education] and reclaim the vibrancy and utility of this iconic space."

Opened in 1932, the fieldhouse was the original student union and served as home to the university gym, a ballroom, a post office, racquetball courts and a massive swimming pool.

The fieldhouse lost its usefulness over time as the university expanded and activities held in the fieldhouse were moved to other parts of campus.

To pay for renovations, LSU has launched a fundraising campaign. In addition to $25 million in state capital outlay funding, it is seeking gifts and donations.

About the Author

Mike Kennedy

Senior Editor

Mike Kennedy has been writing about education for American School & University since 1999. He also has reported on schools and other topics for The Chicago Tribune, The Kansas City Star, The Kansas City Times and City News Bureau of Chicago. He is a graduate of Michigan State University.

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