Board approves field design contracts but asks for standardized fencing/security plan

The Detroit Public Schools Community District moved forward Oct. 14 on contracts to design and build field-and-track upgrades at Cody and a Henry Ford field project while requiring staff to produce a districtwide plan for fencing and perimeter security.

Board members reviewing scope said the initial design contracts covered turf, track, drainage and lighting but did not include perimeter fencing, gated spectator entrances or ticket security infrastructure. Several members described on-site observations that showed entrances and ticket checkpoints outside fenced perimeters.

Superintendent Nikolai Vidi and capital projects staff said the field design contracts are limited to the athletic surface, track and associated civil work; fencing and security would be separate procurements with separate budgets. Dr. Beatty recommended proceeding with the field work while directing staff to complete an analysis and cost estimate for standardized fencing and security across athletic sites. "My professional recommendation is to move forward with this body of work because that body of work is different than fencing," district staff told the board, while agreeing to add a fencing analysis to future design materials.

The board adopted a friendly amendment that the administration return with a coordinated plan and scope for perimeter security, ticketing and standardized fencing before issuing construction recommendations.

Next steps: Staff will include fencing/safety elements in design packages returned for construction approval and provide cost estimates to the finance committee.