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Schembechler Hall To Undergo $9 Million Renovation

LARRY LAGE,AP Sports Writer

ANN ARBOR, Mich. (AP) — The University of Michigan Board of Regents approved $9 million in renovations to the day-to-day home of college football's winningest program.

The regents also passed a proposal to add a $2.8 million marquee just outside of the Big House.

Michigan athletic director Dave Brandon said the athletic department will raise the funds needed to pay for both projects.

"We have most of it already," Brandon said.

Schembechler Hall, where the football program has its offices and locker room, will have 7,000 square feet added during the project that will change the exterior to brick to match the look of the adjacent, indoor practice field and Yost Ice Arena.

The interior of the building will get a makeover as well, adding an area to honor Michigan Football Legends and remaking a museum that features the Wolverines' accomplishments on the field. The renovations are scheduled to be complete in 2014.

"We've always felt like this is a special facility that should get a special investment and now it will," Brandon said. "Schembechler Hall has always been a centerpiece of Michigan athletics that draws recruits from all sports and fans.

"The exterior isn't in good shape and the crazy, blue roof and concrete don't match the beautiful, red-brick buildings we have on the athletic campus."

Outside nearby Michigan Stadium, a 48-by-27 foot sign 21 feet above the ground will be installed along Stadium Boulevard with video and audio features to promote sporting events.

"It will not be used for traditional advertising," Brandon said. "It's going to be an up-to-date way — with pictures, video and sound — to let everyone know what's going on with Michigan athletics."

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Follow Larry Lage on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/larrylage

(© Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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