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Board approves Allen Elementary practice turf purchase, declines to include branding
Summary
The board approved a not‑to‑exceed $483,888 purchase and installation of Shaw Sports Turf at Allen Elementary for a practice field, but chose not to include a factory‑sewn branded logo; drainage/earthwork costs (~$250,000) remain separate.
The Southgate Community School District Board of Education approved a purchase and installation of synthetic turf for a practice field at Allen Elementary on Nov. 25, clearing a not‑to‑exceed total of $483,888 including contingency but excluding any factory‑sewn branding.
Facilities staff recommended buying a Shaw Sports Turf system under a Sourcewell contract. Staff presented a base supply-and-install price of $433,686 and an alternate that includes factory‑sewn lines and markings for $468,838; with a recommended contingency of $23,050 the combined not‑to‑exceed figure is $483,888. "So it's our recommendation the Board of Education approve option 1 and add alternate 2 ... for a total of $468,838 before the contingency," the facilities presenter said.
Board members pressed staff on costs beyond the turf itself, including grading and drainage. Facilities staff said the earthwork required to make the area playable — underdrain, retention ponds and grading — would cost in the range of $200,000 to $300,000; staff summarized that figure as about $250,000 and emphasized the drainage work would be required whether the board chose turf or natural grass.
The board also discussed intended uses (football, soccer, band) and equipment and storage logistics; staff said existing maintenance equipment would suffice and that portable soccer goals and storage options are being planned. On branding, staff said the intention "we do not intend to have this branded" and noted a factory‑sewn logo is available as an option but not included in the approved package. One board member raised concerns about future lighting and potential light pollution for nearby neighborhoods; the board said lighting will be discussed separately.
The board moved and approved the turf purchase without the branding option by voice vote. Staff said the district will return with the full scope of work (including fencing, sidewalks and other site work) in a future package, likely in January.
