EDISON, N.J. – Middlesex County leaders, state and federal officials, community partners and Rutgers Athletics representatives gathered on Tuesday, Jan. 21, to celebrate the groundbreaking of the highly anticipated Multipurpose Community Venue on Middlesex College campus. This is another major milestone in the development of the County's Community, Innovation, and Opportunity (CIO) Strategic Investment Plan, first announced in November 2022. 
 
The state-of-the-art venue will serve as a home field for the Scarlet Knights beginning in 2026 and will boast dedicated Rutgers amenities, including well-equipped locker rooms, air-conditioned batting and pitching tunnels and top-tier broadcast streaming capabilities suitable for the Big Ten Network. 

The partnership between Middlesex County and Rutgers Athletics will not only provide a state-of-the-art home field for the Scarlet Knights but also foster new academic pathways for Middlesex College students. As the largest feeder school to Rutgers University, Middlesex College established a dual admissions agreement with Rutgers in 2024, granting students enhanced access to Rutgers' programs, mentorship opportunities, and shared educational initiatives. Additionally, the County issued a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) in September 2024, attracting more sports industry attention to this multifaceted venue and potentially new tenants.  
 
Sharing the significance of this milestone, speakers included Board of County Commissioners Director Ronald G. Rios, Governor Phil Murphy, Middlesex College President Mark McCormick and Rutgers baseball head coach Steve Owens
 
"The Multipurpose Community Venue and Student Center will be a vibrant hub for learning, recreation, entertainment, and community events," said Governor Phil Murphy. "This project will fuel economic growth and open new opportunities for students and local residents."

"Today's groundbreaking marks a historic moment for Middlesex County as we continue to transform our vision into reality. In just three short years since this project was first announced, we have made tremendous progress—a testament to the invaluable support of our state and federal partners," said Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios. "Through strong partnerships and fiscal responsibility, we are building a brighter future for our County, ensuring Middlesex County remains the best place to live, work, and play for generations to come."
 
"Middlesex College is proud to be an integral part of the Middlesex County community and is grateful for the support of the Middlesex County Board of County Commissioners that enables us to live up to and lean into our College mission. The entire Middlesex College community – employees, students, alumni, and Trustees – are excited that the CIO Plan has reached this milestone," said Middlesex College President Mark McCormick. "These amazing additions to our campus will provide new and enhanced opportunities for our students to learn, study together, and engage in a wide range of extracurricular activities including athletics and student clubs."
 
"Rutgers Athletics is proud to continue its partnership with Middlesex County and break ground on the new Multipurpose Community Venue," Interim Athletic Director Ryan Pisarri said. "This project represents a significant investment in the success of our baseball program. Middlesex County has been an incredible partner in this process and has gone above and beyond to make this venue state-of-art for our players and staff. We look forward to the 2026 season and the many possibilities this venue will bring for Rutgers and Middlesex County."
 
Key Features of the Multipurpose Community Venue and Student Center:
 

• Multipurpose Community Venue: A 3,500-seat, state-of-the-art facility designed for concerts, cultural events, and sports such as baseball, soccer, and lacrosse. The venue will meet Big Ten, NCAA, Minor League Baseball, and FIFA standards, ensuring top-tier accommodations for both athletes and spectators. Premium features include eight private boxes, food and beverage accommodations, and spaces for gatherings and special events.

   
For more information on the CIO Strategic Investment plan, visit middlesexcountynj.gov/cioplan.
 
ABOUT MIDDLESEX COUNTY, NJ 
  
Middlesex County is bettering the lives of residents and providing economic growth opportunities to business and industry. It is home to numerous Fortune 500 companies, three universities, 19 County parks, and world-class healthcare and research facilities, making it one of the nation's most dynamic regions and a leader in life sciences, transportation, the arts, and food innovation. As one of the most diverse populations in the country, Middlesex County is home to over 860,000 residents living throughout 25 municipalities. The County's award-winning Middlesex County Magnet Schools system and two-year Middlesex College uphold its position as #1 in the state for education and workforce development. Conveniently located between New York and Philadelphia, Middlesex County is a leading destination for businesses and residents alike to live, work, and play – and has been since the 17th century. For more information, visit middlesexcountynj.gov  and find us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. 
   

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