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United ISD weighs solar and LED options for high school field lighting after parents and coaches press safety case
Summary
United ISD trustees heard extensive public comment on adding lights to high school football, band and turf fields. Staff reported a preliminary LED study and said state grant loan funds may be available; solar lighting remains under review because of battery and pole costs.
United Independent School District trustees discussed the need and potential for solar or LED lighting at high school football and band practice fields during the Jan. 22 board meeting, prompted by public comments from coaches, parents and alumni who called the need a safety and equity issue.
Speakers pressed the board to study lighting options so campuses can schedule practices in cooler hours, provide evening game opportunities for families and reduce heat-related risk for student athletes and band members. Staff said the district has completed a preliminary LED study and is preparing comparative cost options for the board to review at a future workshop.
Public comments emphasized safety and fairness. Coach Edwin Garcia, athletic coordinator and head football coach at John B. Alexander High School, told the board that only two district stadiums currently have lights and that a lack of evening lighting forces compressed scheduling and can increase heat-related health risks. Parent Claudia…
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