Dirt work is underway and plans are on track, no pun intended, for a major facility upgrade at Emporia Middle School.
According to USD 253 Assistant Superintendent of Business Operations Pam Stranathan, construction began this past Thursday and, despite a slight rain delay, is progressing on schedule for the $3.6 million renovation of the EMS track and field.
The project, being overseen by ATG Sports Industries Inc. will include a brand new running track and football field as well as the addition of seating, parking, a concessions area, restrooms and a new throwing area and perimeter fence, which will replace the current throwing area located on the Flint Hills Technical College Campus. While the updates are situated on the EMS side of the campus shared between the middle school and Emporia High School, EHS Principal Dathan Fischer says the project will mean a great deal for both schools as it will not only reduce the amount of wear and tear on EHS facilities, it will also help further create a “more complete campus” on top of expanding opportunities for hosting larger events.
On top of the benefits for the district, EHS Athletics Director Beau Welch says the facility will also be one that the community will have access to and can take great pride in.
While the facilities will be available for use by the public, the exact details of said community use, including costs and rentals, are still being hammered out at this time, according to Stranathan. She says the district is in the process of formalizing a rental agreement policy, with more information to be made public once that process is completed.
The board of education approved the multi-million dollar project by unanimous vote last month, with the project being funded through capital outlay dollars, which can only be used for capital improvement or “brick and mortar” projects such as this.
For questions or more information, visit USD253.org.
