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Newark Unified pauses track earthwork after tests find saturated subgrade; labs will advise lime/cement treatment
Summary
Contractor testing found saturated/unstable soil in several track/field areas; the board approved continued lab testing and directed non‑earthwork tasks to proceed while the contractor awaits a testing lab recommendation on lime or cement stabilization and potential change orders.
Administration and construction staff told the board that preliminary probing of the athletic field and track revealed saturated and poorly compacted subgrade in multiple test locations, prompting the contractor to pause earthwork until lab results return.
Project presenters said crews probed six locations and in some places a 3‑foot rod nearly disappeared, evidence the geotechnical engineer characterized as saturated, low‑density subgrade that may require lime treatment, lime‑cement stabilization, or other improvements before track surfacing can proceed. The lab results are expected shortly and will guide whether the contractor applies lime treatment alone, cement stabilization or a combination.
The board approved moving forward with testing and allowed the contractor to continue non‑earthwork work (ADA paths, restrooms, modernization tasks) while the lab results are pending. Trustees noted schedule risk: ongoing saturated conditions and the onset of the rainy season could push completion dates and affect athletics schedules and graduation logistics. The district said any field‑stabilization work and associated costs will be addressed via a contract change order to be brought to the board for approval.
Staff committed to returning with the lab recommendations and any cost or schedule impacts, and said the project team will coordinate with athletics staff about alternate sites and timeline contingencies.
No vote on a change order was taken at the meeting; the board approved the testing and temporary work changes and asked for a follow‑up report once testing is complete.
