The Cheltenham School District's Facilities Committee meeting on February 4, 2025, highlighted significant advancements in the ongoing stadium renovation project, which aims to enhance community sports facilities. The proposed upgrades include the installation of new artificial turf, an expanded track, increased seating capacity, and improved security measures, all designed to accommodate larger events and provide better amenities for visitors.

Key components of the project involve transitioning from a grass field to synthetic turf, allowing for year-round use for multiple sports. The track will expand from six to eight lanes, facilitating larger competitions. Additionally, the renovation will triple the seating capacity with new bleachers, ensuring ample space for attendees during popular events like Friday night football games. A new gatehouse will also be constructed to provide necessary restroom facilities and enhance security at the stadium.

The project is budgeted at over $12 million, with approximately half of the costs already accounted for through bids for the turf and track, which came in at about $5 million. The committee is on track to begin construction this summer, with a goal of completing the project by the start of the football season in late August. This timeline is crucial, as the first game is scheduled for August 29.

In addition to the stadium improvements, the district has secured a $1 million facility improvement grant from the state, which will help cover project costs. The committee reported that a recent roofing bid came in lower than expected, allowing for additional work to qualify for the full grant amount.

As the project progresses, the Facilities Committee plans to bid the remaining work, including the gatehouse and surrounding infrastructure, in the coming weeks. The community can look forward to enhanced facilities that will not only support local sports but also foster greater community engagement and pride.