Governor Dave Heineman Monday signed a bill that sets aside state funds for the renovation of the football stadium at Peru State College.
 Peru State president, Dr. Dan, Hanson, says the $7.5 million appropriation will go a long way towards making the much-needed upgrades to the historic Oak Bowl.  (play audio  :33   “…for our players.”)
 Dr. Hanson says the renovated Oak Bowl should benefit more than just Peru State College.  (play audio  :19   “…southeast Nebraska.)
 The total cost for the Oak Bowl renovation, including a fieldhouse, is estimated at $14 million, and the college is beginning to fundraising efforts to complete the project.  Dr. Hanson says the Oak Bowl renovation is part of a comprehensive plan that has seen the college already invest $50 million in campus infrastructure improvements.   
 He gives much of the credit for the $7.5 million in state funding to First District State Senator Lavon Heidemann, the Chairman of the Legislature’s Appropriations Committee.  (play audio  :10   “…this funding.”)
 Dr. Hanson says it’s too early to tell when construction might start, but he’s optimistic that it can begin in the next year or two.
 The bill that appropriated the funds for the Oak Bowl renovations is LB 968.