COLLEGE PARK, Md. - A project which broke ground nearly two years ago came to fruition Thursday evening for the Maryland Terrapins.

The upgraded Tyser Tower, which houses suites and a new press box, among other amenities, was unveiled during a ribbon-cutting ceremony before more than 200 dignitaries and supporters.

Those in attendance included University of Maryland President C.D. (Dan) Mote, Director of Athletics Deborah A. Yow and head football coach Ralph Friedgen.

Mote called it "an exciting day" and "important for recruits, alumni, current players and the coaching staff."

The upgraded facility, which cost $50.8 million, includes 64 suites, new mezzanine seating for over 400 patrons, new areas for working media and new booths for radio and television.

"This is an extraordinary commitment to our football program," Yow said. "There were so many people behind the scenes which made this possible."

Built by Clark Construction Group, LLC, Tyser Tower has tripled in size, to 98,000 square feet. Construction began in phases following the end of the 2007 season with the goal of opening prior to the 2009 season.

"I'm very proud of the work done by Clark Construction," Friedgen said. "We have one of the finest facilities in the country."

The facility will be used for the first time Saturday when the Terps play host to James Madison University.