New Field Project On Track, On Time, and On Budget

The athletic fields at Marshall Simonds Middle School will be getting a major upgrade this year, in a move that will convert the existing single turf field and large grass field into a multi-use sports complex.

Along with boosting field capacity for the town and enhancing scheduling options, the project aims to fix drainage issues and improve field conditions while making the area more accessible.

The two full-size turf soccer or lacrosse fields featured in the new design will be separated by a movable net, allowing games to happen at the same time without getting in each other's way. Additional netting will protect the nearby wetlands from stray balls.

The renovation includes several key upgrades:

• A ramp for better accessibility and more accessible seating
• New lights that won't spill over into nearby areas
• A paved walking path around the edge
• Scoreboards for each field
• Access paths for emergency vehicles
• Electrical outlets and water hookups for maintenance and events

The project team plans to hold a public information session and is looking at ways to get students involved in naming the new field.

The team is also working on a new agreement to address concerns about scheduling field use among schools, recreation programs, and youth sports.

Jeremy Brooks, the Field Committee's School Committee representative, says the Committee is extremely mindful of budget constraints and of the scrutiny they'll face for their choices, especially in light of the controversy the project initially faced. They've had to make some trade-offs, including using less-sustainable materials, but are invested in achieving the best possible outcome for the community.

The project is on track to start the permitting process by mid-winter, with construction kicking off in early spring. The goal is to have the new complex ready for use by August or September, just in time for the new school year.