DRAW’s Megan Vercilla and H.F. Lenz Company’s Zachary Denk present plans for New Castle School District’s new softball field during a city Zoning Hearing Board of Appeals hearing on 9/25/23. Photo Credit: Gwen Albers/New Castle News.
The New Castle School District is embarking on an exciting project to construct an artificial turf softball field at the George Washington Intermediate School on East Euclid Avenue. District Business Manager Joseph Ambrosini has estimated the project to cost between $800,000 and $980,000.
City Zoning Officer Doug Seeger received permit applications suggesting a $2 million construction cost, but Ambrosini clarified that the higher estimate represents the total project cost if all elements were approved, such as a press box and lighting. The initial phase focuses on the turf, fencing, and dugout.
Key Details:
- The project aims to address the frequent cancellation of softball games and practices due to inclement spring weather, providing a reliable field for play.
- An existing field at the same school will continue to be used for junior varsity play, practices, and gym classes.
- Bids for the project are due on Friday, with the school board scheduled to review them on October 10 and award contracts by October 17. Completion is targeted for March 1.
- Board President Gary Schooley mentioned that the district saved approximately $1 million to $1.2 million on Taggart Stadium’s recent renovation, and these savings may be applied to the softball field.
- The district secured $3 million in borrowing in May 2022 to fund athletic capital improvements, including the new softball field, with a 10-year note at a 3 percent interest rate.
- The project received approval from the city council, planning commission, and zoning hearing board, with variances granted for fencing height, backstop netting, press box height, and lamppost installation.
- The field will be used exclusively for the softball season, and lights will be turned off immediately after night games.
The New Castle School District’s commitment to improving its athletic facilities will not only benefit its students but also the wider community, providing a reliable venue for softball activities in unpredictable weather conditions.