Coaches urge new track; district issues RFP for resurfacing and turf

A coach told the Coventry Local School District board on March 20 that the school
thletic track has fallen into disrepair and the district is moving forward with a request for proposals to replace the surface. The coach said exposed cement and bare spots have prevented home meets for several years and depressed participation.

Why it matters: Coaches and board members described lost opportunities for senior nights, concession revenue and community events tied to hosting meets. One presenter noted relay invitationals previously generated "$2,200 to $2,500" in profit per event, revenue the program used for warmups and travel.

What was said: "We're totally fine with having a 6 lane track," the coach said when board members asked whether an 8‑lane championship facility was necessary. The coach added a new surface, plus permanent speaker systems and lighting, would let the school host all‑day meets and senior nights closer to home.

Procurement timeline and scope: District staff said the RFP for the track and playground turf was published and will be advertised twice in the Beacon Journal; a vendor walkthrough is scheduled for next Wednesday and proposals are due by the 10th (of the next month). Administration told the board it hopes to present competitive bids at the April 4 meeting and have track work completed over the summer so the surface is ready for the next season. Staff also noted the playground project has a firm "hard stop" the Friday before school starts.

Board concerns and tradeoffs: Board members pressed on capacity issues if the district were to build an 8‑lane championship track, noting limited parking, bleacher capacity and restrooms could prevent hosting larger district or regional championship events. Coaches countered that a 6‑lane surface meets the league
nd most invitational needs and would be a pragmatic, lower‑cost option while still restoring home meets.

Next steps: Staff will collect vendor bids, coordinate contractor schedules for any separate work (lighting, sidewalks, stands) and return with proposals at the board
pril meeting. The district also said it has begun agency outreach (ODNR/Army Corps/EPA referenced in the presentation) related to site work and submitted a related e‑rate application for the next phase of approvals.

The board did not vote on a funding package at the March meeting; staff asked for direction and said formal bid proposals would be available at the next business meeting.