Board hears plan to add surface drains at Cohoes softball field after puddling concerns

Facilities staff told the Cohoes board that the softball field has persistent puddling during heavy rain because the infield pitches toward the back and the clay surface slows infiltration. Staff recommended adding several surface drains along the fence line with a geotextile fabric, described as a modest-cost improvement designed to reduce standing water.

Board members asked about alternatives and safety implications. One board member expressed concern that drains along prime playing lines could affect playability and increase the chance of slips; the presenter said alternatives include lowering the drains slightly and placing artificial turf above them or adding additional underdrain capacity, but that the clay layer complicates drainage to subsurface systems.

The board discussed community-organized efforts and the value of forming a liaison or standing committee to work with stakeholders. Several board members volunteered for committees including transportation and district safety. Facilities staff said it would share more detailed material and images with the board and that the committee process would help balance design, safety and cost trade-offs.

Why this matters: Athletic fields are high-use district assets; drainage and surface choices affect safety, playability and maintenance budgets. The board asked for more detailed cost and design information before approving construction work.

What to watch: Facilities will provide more information and images; the board may refer the project to committees for further review and will need to weigh safety and playability against budget and scheduling.