The Brownwood ISD school board unanimously approved the replacement of turf at Gordon Wood Stadium which is estimated to be completed in January.
The turf, manufactured by Desso Sports Systems, will be installed by Paragon Sports Constructors who was awarded the bid at Monday night’s school board meeting.
Deputy Superintendent Kevin Gabaree said that Paragon will begin the project on December 19th by protecting the stadium track and then begin demolition of the old turf the next day. Although the completion date is set for February 4th, Gabaree said that if all goes well, it could be completed as early as January 10th.
The project cost will be $426,649.
“One thing that is exciting about this turf is some of the top soccer fields up in Frisco, FC Dallas, their top stadiums there are made from this same material,” Gabaree said.
The current turf at Gordon Wood Stadium has been in place for 10 years.
The new turf would have a minimum lifespan of 10 years. Officials said that the old turf could not be reinstalled at the high school, but small sections of it could be reused in the new ag show barn, in batting cages and in several other small areas.
The board also approved the construction of the Gerald Thomas Pavilion. This agricultural show barn would include restrooms and concession stands and would not only be used for ag students but would be available for local livestock shows.
Gabaree said that the pavilion would cost an estimated $150,000 to build and much of the labor would be done by the district. It would be built near the district’s existing sheep and goat barn.
Other items addressed at Monday’s school board meeting:
*The board reappointed Thomas Vickers and Michael Coppic to the board of the Brown County Appraisal District.
*The board approved updates to the TASB Localized Policy Manual.
*The board discussed a new college readiness program called AVID.
*The board will hold a special meeting next Tuesday, December 17th at 6:30 PM to vote on the food service program.
Pictured at top is a rendering of what the new stadium turf will look like.
