Construction Begins on Press Box and Concession Stand Pavilion
Representatives from Simmons Bank, Moser Construction, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, and Torii Hunter commemorate the construction of a pavilion at Torii Hunter Baseball/Softball Complex. Named Simmons Bank Pavilion, the structure will include a press box and concession stand.
The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) Department of Athletics, along with Gov. Asa Hutchinson, UA System President Donald Bobbitt, members of the UA System Board of Trustees, famed baseball player Torii Hunter, Simmons First National Corp. CEO George Makris, and Sissy’s Log Cabin President Bill Jones broke ground on a state-of-the-art pavilion at the Torii Hunter Baseball and Softball Complex on Friday, Aug. 31.
The pavilion, named the Simmons Bank Pavilion, will consist of a press box and concession stand. Moser Construction, LLC will begin construction in the immediate weeks following the ceremony on the $800,000 project. The pavilion is scheduled to be completed in time for the first home game of the 2019 baseball season.
“UAPB is fortunate to have support from our community partners to complete the Torii Hunter Complex,” said Dr. Laurence B. Alexander, UAPB chancellor. “It is important to note that the longstanding relationships with Mr. Jones, Mr. Hunter and Simmons Bank have positioned UAPB’s facilities to not only meet the university’s needs but those of the greater Pine Bluff community.”
Five-time Major League Baseball All-Star selection and nine-time Gold Glove winner Torii Hunter provided the initial donation the started renovations on the complex nearly seven years ago.
“Katrina and I are very excited that this project is coming to completion. I was taught when I was growing up that when you do something, you do it right; and anything you want to make great takes time, effort and support. I am thankful for all parties involved who played a role in making this happen. This complex is not only a great facility for UAPB but for the entire community. I read somewhere that ‘a legacy is a reflection of the past and a look to the future.’ This complex will be a legacy for years to come,” said Hunter.
“It’s an honor to be among this community of UAPB supporters today and a privilege to break ground on this shared vision that will soon be coming to life,” said George Makris, chairman and CEO of Simmons First National Corp.
“The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff means the world to our family, and this groundbreaking shows the commitment of our community and our state to the great university. Wonderful things are ahead,” said Bill Jones, president of Sissy’s Log Cabin.
“The baseball and softball teams are excited to see how the pavilion turns out,” said Carlos James, UAPB head baseball coach. “We hope these improvements encourage more game attendance and support for both baseball and softball.”
About the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) is an 1890 Land-Grant HBCU with a diverse student population, competitive degree offerings and stellar faculty. For more than 140 years, UAPB has worked to create an environment that inculcates learning, growth and productivity while affording a basic need to its students – a chance to advance. UAPB offers Certificate and Associates degree programs, more than thirty Undergraduate programs, Master’s degree programs and a Doctorate program in Aquaculture/Fisheries. Students are active in more than 100 organizations, an internationally renowned Vesper Choir, Marching Band, Concert Bands, Wind Symphony, nationally recognized debate team, award-winning theater department and accomplished athletic program.
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