Board hears Memorial Stadium upgrades options amid turf safety concern; $283,690 generator change order proposed for Western renovations

Directors discussed potential upgrades to Memorial Stadium, including a combined scoreboard and sound system and possible video-board options that could support advertising and a curriculum for students. Staff said cooperative-purchasing options could shorten timelines and allow installation ahead of the next football season.

Multiple directors said turf is the more urgent safety concern. Consultants said the synthetic turf, installed in 2014 with an eight-year warranty, is approaching Gmax safety limits and that adding infill provides limited, short-term benefit while creating traction problems. Director Yani asked staff to provide estimated replacement costs and a temporary plan; staff said they will bring a proposal to the board for consideration.

Separately, the committee reviewed a proposed change order of $283,690.95 for Western renovation project 033029 to replace an existing generator that failed during construction. Presenters said the existing unit—vintage to the building—could not be repaired due to age and parts availability; the replacement would be larger to support safety/security loads and kitchen equipment. The change order was described and will be on the board agenda for approval.

Next steps: staff will forward cost estimates for turf replacement and a temporary solution for board consideration, and the Western generator change order will appear on the consent/non-consent agenda for approval at the district meeting.