Virginia Tech Drillfield to undergo changes

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 BLACKSBURG (WSLS) -

The Drillfield at Virginia Tech will soon get a new look. The facelift is coming in the form of additional paths being put in.

The Drillfield is the centerpiece of campus. Thousands of students walk it every day and that's created a bit of a mess when it rains. University administrators say dirt paths have formed and led to mud being tracked into campus buildings.

Three dirt paths across the grassy area will now be paved with asphalt. The change is a small part of a long term change for the Drillfield as part of the university master plan that outlines significant upgrades.

"We have a long term plan for the Drillfield," said Bob Spieldenner with Administrative Services. "In a couple years we're looking at making some significant improvements to the paths, and also the surrounding area; including seating,amphitheatere seating in some areas, improving the lighting."

Plans also include the possibility of moving parking away from the field to the building side of Drillfield Drive.

Asphalt paths will be put in Monday, weather permitting. The new paths will add to five already there. They'll be smaller than the existing ones at 5-feet-wide, versus the 12-foot-wide paths already set and in use.