New Hope-Solebury School District is nearing the finish line on a new track and turf field installation project, scheduled to be completed in early October. A critical resource for the New Hope-Solebury Athletics Program, which has a student participation rate of over 60%, the new track and turf field will host physical education courses, conditioning for most athletic teams, and practices and competitions for the District’s lacrosse, soccer, field hockey, football, and track teams.
The original track was installed in 2004 with funds from the New Hope-Solebury Community Association. District resources were used for the associated needs, including lighting, a PA system, drainage requirements, and bleachers. Additional public funds were not utilized again until 2019, when a short-term solution was attempted to address cracks and gaps in the surface.
An independent evaluation conducted in 2019 determined that foundational damage and cracked surfaces presented safety concerns for student athletes. Following the short-term solution that provided additional time for deliberation, the School District was faced with the decision to either demolish the track and disband these athletic teams or to install a completely new surface. Ultimately, the Board of School Directors approved a comprehensive renovation project, including the installation of a new track, turf field, and concrete walkways. The turf field will address persistent drainage issues that have caused numerous game cancellations. The concrete walkways will make the field more accessible for those with disabilities.
“We are delighted to see this revitalization of our athletics facilities come to fruition – this is a project that has been a vision for this District for over twenty years. The excitement and anticipation are palpable. We hope this new resource will be inspiring for our athletes, our students, and our entire community,” shared Superintendent Dr. Lentz.
The public is invited to a celebration and formal ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, October 8th.