Athletic Field Use and Feasibility Study · Bellefonte Area High School July 28, 2005 Athletic Field Use and Feasibility Study 2 I. Introduction General The Bellefonte Area School

Athletic Field Use and Feasibility Study

Bellefonte Area High School

Bellefonte Area School District

Administration and Operations 318 North Allegheny Street

Bellefonte, PA 16823 Phone: (814) 355-4814 Fax: (814) 353-5342

July 28, 2005

Prepared By:

ELA Group, Inc. 2013 Sandy Drive, Suite 103

State College, PA 16803 (814) 861-6328

(814) 861-5503 (FAX) www.elagroup.com

Engineers and Landscape Architects

http://www.elagroup.com/

Bellefonte Area High School July 28, 2005 Athletic Field Use and Feasibility Study 1 TABLE OF CONTENTS I. Introduction ........................................................................................................2

General....................................................................................................................... Athletic Program and Sports Field Overview............................................................ Athletic Program Growth and Sports Field Demand................................................. Study Purpose and Goals ........................................................................................... Recommendation .......................................................................................................

II. Athletic Field Use and Observations........................................................12

Field and Facilities Identification .............................................................................. Field Event Schedule ................................................................................................. Field Observations ..................................................................................................... Stadium Football Varsity Baseball Football Practice Field Field/Facilities Condition Summary .......................................................................... Summary ....................................................................................................................

III. Recommendation.............................................................................................25

Appendix ................................................................................................................

On-Site Facilities Sketch Plan .............................................................................A.1

Soil Test Laboratory Reports ...............................................................................A.2

ELA Group, Inc. State College, PA

Bellefonte Area High School July 28, 2005 Athletic Field Use and Feasibility Study 2

I. Introduction

General

The Bellefonte Area School District is located in Central Pennsylvania in Centre County. The School District comprises Bellefonte Borough, Benner, Spring Marion and Walker Township’s. Population in this District has been experiencing growth and will continue to experience pressures of growth in the future. The District provides educational opportunities for grades Kindergarten through 12th grade with a host of specialty programs. District wide enrolment for 2004-05 school year topped 2,990 students. Bellefonte Area High School is located within the Borough of Bellefonte on a site that is approximately 26.31 acres in size. The current facility is a combination of building projects originating from 1956 with the construction of the initial building and culminating to the current state of the structure from two to three additional construction projects. Under design at the present is an expansion and renovations project at the facility that includes classroom, gymnasium and auditorium additions, selected areas for demolition and a full renovation of the remaining existing structure. Enrolment of the new structure will include 1,200 students and 125 to 130 faculty and staff. These planned improvements will help the District provide the physical space demands to meet the growing enrollment and perhaps more importantly modernization of the facility that is necessary for today’s academic programs and curriculum. Resulting from the anticipated expansion and renovations project, the District will be enhancing the site layout and circulation of the property. Separate bus and parent drop-off/staging areas will be developed along with renovation of existing and new site facilities to include redeveloped and newly constructed parking areas. Current site configuration accommodates staging for eight busses and provides parking for approximately 182 passenger vehicles. With the redesigned site amenities the staging area for busses will continue to accommodate eight busses but will increase parking for approximately 415 passenger vehicles. The increase in parking potential is accommodated by the construction of new parking area at the North West corner of the site adjacent to East Bishop Street and McAllister Street. This parking field is planned to house 207 passenger vehicles. However, the area that is planned for the development of this new parking area is the area that is currently utilized by the district for open field activities. In addition to the elimination of the open field area, there will be a redesign and reuse of an existing area that currently accommodates some tennis and basketball courts and an additional paved area for other hard surface activities. These areas as well will be developed into parking facilities as part of the proposed additions and renovations project.



The Bellefonte Area School District School Board formed an Athletics Facilities Evaluation Committee to review the existing facilities at the High School. The Committee formed a core group of 12 individuals representative of various capacities related to the School District. The Committee members are as follows: School Board Representatives: Mr. Robert Lumley-Sapanski Ms. Tammy Myers Mr. William MacMath School Administrative Representatives: Dr. James T. Masullo, Jr., District Superintendent Ms. Anne Hutcheson, High School Principal Mr. Donald Amoriello, Athletics Director Ms. Debra Moore, Assistant Athletic Director Mr. Denny Leathers, Baseball Coach Student Representatives: Ms. Missey Clouser, Student Athlete Mr. Josh Gentzel, Student Athlete Community Representatives: Ms. Elaine Rackovan, Parent of Student Athlete Mr. Denny Mason, Community Member and Bellefonte High Alumni

ATHLETIC PROGRAM AND SPORTS FIELD OVERVIEW The athletics program for the Bellefonte Area School District is rooted from the High School Athletic Handbook. It is within the Handbook that the substance of the programs gain their inception and from which they grow providing guidance to the young women and men athletes of the School District. The follow excerpts from the Handbook provide the foundational guidance for the development of this study: Bellefonte Area School District Athletic Handbook (Excerpts) I. Mission Statement Bellefonte High School Athletic Handbook It is the mission of the Bellefonte Area School District to educate all of our students in a learning environment that prepares them to meet life’s challenges. (BASD Policy 101)



II. Co-Curricular Activities Bellefonte High School Athletic Handbook The Board believes that the goals and objectives of this district are best achieved by a diversity of learning experiences, some of which are more appropriately conducted outside of the school. All learning experiences offered by the schools of this district, curricular and co-curricular, should be planned and integrated toward the attainment of the district’s objectives. (BASD Policy 122) III. Participation In Co-Curricular Programs Bellefonte High School Athletic Handbook The Board requires equal opportunity for every student of the district. In every way possible this policy must communicate that each student has equal access to every program of the school. It is understood that elections, tryouts, and auditions are necessary for an organization whose numbers of participants must be limited. It is also understood that criteria for selection must apply to all candidates. (BASD Policy 232.1) IV. Athletic Policy Bellefonte High School Athletic Handbook The Bellefonte Area School District believes that a dynamic program of athletics is vital to the educational development of the student. The Bellefonte Area School District Athletic Program should provide a variety of experiences to enhance the development of positive student habits and attitudes that will prepare them for adult life in a democratic society. Athletics is an important part of the total school program, which works in conjunction with the other educational experiences to provide students the environment and opportunity to develop as better citizens. This opportunity is a privilege that carries with it responsibilities to the school, to the sport, to other students, to the community and to the athletes themselves. These experiences contribute to the development of learning skills and emotional patterns that enable the student to achieve maximum benefit from his or her education. The Board recognizes the value of a program of interscholastic athletics as an integral part of the total experience to all students of the district and to the community. Therefore, the Board of Education shall provide as comprehensive an athletic program as is financially and practically possible. (BASD Policy 123)



V. Athletic Goals And Objectives Bellefonte High School Athletic Handbook Our Goal – The student-athlete shall become a more effective citizen. Our specific Objectives – The student shall learn: A. To work with others – In a democratic society a person must develop self-discipline, respect for authority, and the spirit of hard work and sacrifice. The team and its objectives must be placed higher than personal desires. B. To be successful – Our society is very competitive. We do not always win, but we succeed when we continually strive to do so. You can learn to accept defeat only by striving to win with earnest dedication. Develop a desire to excel. The Bellefonte Area School District encourages student participation and involvement in extracurricular activities. The athletic programs include both indoor and field sports (outdoor) with participation occurring in all three (3) primary sports seasons, - Fall, Winter, and Spring. The School District also supports youth sports development and community recreation for all age levels, providing facility access to several community recreation organizations, youth and adult sports clubs, and summer youth sports camps and views their facilities as community facilities. High School Field Sports Freshman (9th Grade) through varsity field sports, such as football, soccer, field hockey, lacrosse, baseball, and softball primarily utilize athletic fields located on the Bellefonte High School campus for practice and competition (home games). The high school campus includes the football stadium, baseball stadium and two open turf practice fields. In addition there is a paved area that serves to provide tennis activities and outdoor basketball court.



The field sports provided as part of the high school athletic program are outlined in Table A below. TABLE A – HIGH SCHOOL FIELD SPORTS

Level On/Off Site Sport/Athletic Program Boys Girls

High School Off Track & Field Varsity Yes Yes High School Off Track & Field – Jr. Varsity Yes Yes High School Off Cross Country – Varsity Yes Yes High School Off Cross Country – Jr. Varsity Yes Yes High School On Baseball - Varsity Yes No High School On Baseball – Jr. Varsity Yes No High School On Football – Varsity Yes No High School On Football – Jr. Varsity Yes No High School Off Softball – Varsity No Yes High School Off Softball – Jr. Varsity No Yes High School Off Soccer – Varsity Yes Yes High School Off Soccer – Jr. Varsity Yes Yes High School Off Golf – Varsity Yes Yes High School Off Golf – Jr. Varsity Yes Yes

Jr. High On Football Yes No Jr. High Off Softball No Yes

As noted above in Table A, the existing facilities can only provide facilities and fields to support limited sports venues for the High School programs. These venues include the Football and Baseball sports teams both Varsity and Jr. Varsity as well as the Jr. High football program. The majority of the sports team programs, both competition and practice, must be played off-site from the High School Facility. However, the High School facilities are a host to other activities. These include the use of the open field practice areas for the High School Physical Education Curriculum as well as football practice, the annual Carnival and Marching Band practice.



The stadium football field and baseball field have been in continued use for twenty-five (25) or more years without major renovation or reconstruction. No new fields have been constructed on the site of the High School for a prolonged period of time. This is in part due to the limited space available for expansion and/or replacement/upgrade of the existing on-site facilities and fields. At a little more than twenty-six and a third acres, there is limited space available for large open field sports after the High School building and supporting facilities are accounted for on-site. Other sports offered by the School District as part of the high school athletic program include sports that are considered interior sports and are not a part of this study. These could include sports such as swimming, volleyball, and basketball as well as other interior sports. These sports are not considered as field sports and have unique or indoor facility requirements beyond the scope of this Study.

Athletic Program Growth and Sports Field Demand

Demand has not only been placed on the educational facilities as a result of enrollment growth, but on the athletic facilities as well. Over the past Twenty to Thirty years the enrollment growth has led to greater participation, an increase in the number of athletic programs offered, and an increase in the number of student athletes at all grade levels. The growth of the community, including growth in the number of recreational programs and participation at all levels, has also resulted in increased levels of use of District athletic fields and facilities. In response to the growth of the community, the Bellefonte Area School District has provided curriculum and sports programming and facilities in an ‘on-demand’ basis. These accommodations to the student body and community have reached a point of exhaustion of the current facilities of the District (both District owned facilities as well as community shared facilities). The District now finds that providing for academic and interscholastic sports programs is challenging the existing facilities. New construction and renovations projects for the High School facility have over time reduced the land area available for the outdoor field sports. The current facility expansion and renovations project the District is undertaking will eliminate one practice field that is serving as a multi-functional space. The open practice field to the West of the existing building will be lost for outdoor field use due to the conversion of the area into a parking lot to serve the growing needs of the facility. Displacing and eliminating field area on-site will increase the burden on the remaining field areas to provide the necessary space for outdoor education and interscholastic sports objectives. As the number of the athletic fields does not generally keep pace with the growth and enrollment in the District, and existing fields continue to be lost due to facility improvements an intense demand for athletic field use is increasing. With this demand, maintaining appropriate and safe field conditions is becoming a challenge.



Study Purpose and Goals The goal of the Bellefonte Area School District is to provide sports fields and facilities suitable for the level of play (competition and practice) appropriate in number, size, and quality to accommodate the current athletic programs, future growth. The growing demand for athletic fields necessary to support the High School through varsity field sports programs, physical education, and community use is challenging the District to meet this goal. Over time the High School campus has seen a decrease in open field area through expansions and renovations projects. It is the expressed desire of the School Board to evaluate the High School facilities in terms of sufficient available athletic facilities to meet the needs of the District and community. This Athletic Field Use and Feasibility Study includes an evaluation of existing sports fields located at the Bellefonte High School campus and considers the quality and condition of the athletic fields based on three (3) primary and common factors. These include cultural factors, physical factors, and factors related to the type and intensity of field use: • Cultural factors are most commonly associated with fertility and maintenance

practices necessary to sustain vegetative propagation and root zone health.

• Physical factors are those such as surface drainage, field grading/surface contour, construction quality and methods, and soil compaction or composition, which cannot be addressed through typical cultural practices.

• Use factors are those factors associated with the intensity, type, or other user-based practices that result in excessive wear and turf stress that limits turf recovery.

Turf deterioration commonly results from a combination of the above factors, but most often includes use of the field exceeding the baseline of use that the cultural and physical characteristics of the field can reasonably tolerate where recovery through natural turf germination is desired. A higher quality of construction and more intensive maintenance programs can help increase the baseline for maximum use and reduce turf stress. However, turf wear and deterioration should be expected and is common for all “high use” facilities, such as public recreation, schools, and municipal fields regardless of the quality of construction and extent of maintenance. The distinct advantage of quality construction and maintenance practices is an increase in the effectiveness of field maintenance leading to shorter recovery periods and more complete turf regeneration.



Public schools, municipal agencies, and public recreation organizations face similar challenges where demand exceeds supply. The development of new athletic fields, or “high quality athletic fields”, may also be influenced by limited or fixed funds available for construction and ongoing maintenance practices. Additional factors, such “perception of quality” and “maintenance apathy” can further influence the ability of public agencies to provide athletic fields that are free of divots, deleterious material, bare areas, sparse and clumped turf, or other hazards that may impact safety or result in inconsistent and unsuitable playing conditions.

The primary goal of the study is to evaluate the athletic facilities at the Bellefonte High School campus and develop recommendations to assist the District in determining improvements, and/or use practices, that will provide for safe and consistent athletic fields sustainable to the program demand for the High School field sports programs. To achieve this goal, the scope of the study includes the following primary tasks: • Visual inspection of each field included in the study to determine turf quality,

physical characteristics, such as surface drainage, field slope, upslope drainage, compaction, and size, as well as general observations regarding the field condition.

• Identify the current use, or uses, and intensity of use (number of practices,

games, or other “events”) for each field. • Identify/establish an approximate baseline for maximum use based upon the

intensity/type of field use, current condition, method of field construction, and maintenance practices.

• Develop alternatives (Options) to address conditions leading to field

deterioration and enhance turf recovery, including field use and maintenance practices, reconstruction and renovation of existing facilities, construction of additional (new) facilities, and consideration of synthetic turf athletic field surfacing.

Study Development This study has been developed as a result of committee efforts and meetings. Through the expertise and knowledge of the members, the committee has prepared the findings and recommendations in this report.



In addition, the study has been developed based upon the following: • Meetings and conversations with the Athletics Study Committee, District

administrative and athletics staff and information provided by these parties regarding field use and field assignments for athletics, physical education, and community use;

• Site inspection/review of the athletic fields at the High School campus;

• Topsoil fertility testing and review of soil test laboratory reports; • Review of District field use practices, primarily related to scheduled field

assignments, including type of sport/program and number of scheduled events (games and practices).

Goal The Study Committee first developed an overall goal for the basis of the study and recommendations of this study. Upon review of the programs and research of the users of the facilities the Committee established the following for their goal: Provide conclusions and recommendations to the School Board for their consideration to implement a plan that will ensure quality facilities to fulfill the:

• Needs of the High School • Eliminate Schedule Conflicts • Eliminate overuse of field facilities

Priorities After the establishment of the goal, the committee reviewed the current users of the facilities and set priorities for use. These priorities are as follows:

1. High School Curriculum (Physical Education) 2. High School Athletic Teams 3. Other High School Activities

a. Marching Band b. Graduation c. Outdoor Functions and Activities

4. Community Partnerships



It is necessary for the physical education programs to remain on campus or immediately adjacent to the campus. This is primarily due to the time allotment between classes. Students completing a class session for physical education will need time to shower, change clothes and arrive on time to their next scheduled class. Having the physical education classes off-site simply would not allow for adequate time for the students to be transported to a remote location for activities and then back to the main campus for preparation to their next scheduled class commitment. Therefore, providing facilities on-site for physical education programs was established as the first priority for the High School programs. Secondly, interscholastic athletics is listed for priority. This was established in the rankings because of the development of the student through the participation in sports. In reading the excerpts of the Student Athlete Handbook it is clear that the student benefits significantly and is prepared for certain aspects of life through the participation in team sports. Cooperation, helpfulness and self-discipline and respect for authority are learned through the participation in team sports. Other High School Activities to be fulfilled on site include activities such as Graduation, marching band practice, outdoor science fair activities as well as other functions to be scheduled on an as needed basis. These functions as well have a very strong relationship to the main building and rely on some resources of the building for operations. As is the case with the physical education program the additional activities to be held on-site need to be in close proximity to the main building. Transportation hubs are already established for arrival and departure of students and visitors. The District has always condoned community use of the facility. The facility is a public facility and should remain in full accessibility of the Community. The District has had an open door policy for its facilities District wide and continues to maintain the shared use with various groups and organization. Recommendation Through the development of the study, the Committee has arrived at the conclusion that in order for the District to provide the needed outdoor field facilities for the High School curriculum and interscholastic programs and community use, the District will need to secure additional land area. This land area will serve as the hub of the interscholastic competition fields for the High School programs as the curriculum-based programs continue to remain home-based on the High School campus.



II. Athletic Field Use and Observations

General The Bellefonte Area High School facility is situated on property approximately twenty six and one third acres. On the site is the High School Building supporting facilities and infrastructure in support of the building to include parking and driveway areas as well as bus and vehicular drop-off areas and athletic facilities. It is the athletic facilities that this study focuses upon. Field and Facilities Identification The High School facility has four main areas for outdoor field plan and an additional paved area to serve as court area for tennis and basketball. The outdoor field areas are identified as follows:

1. Stadium Football 2. Varsity Baseball 3. Football Practice 4. Band Practice

Field Event Schedule: High School Facilities Stadium Football

Events Schedule Event Description 5 Varsity Football Games 4 Junior Varsity Games

4-5 Junior Varsity Double Headers 3-4 Single 7th Grade Football Games

15-20 Youth Football Games 1-2 Girls Soccer Double Headers 1-2 Boys Soccer Double Headers

1-2 times per week

Marching Band Practice



Varsity Baseball

Events Schedule Event Description 10 Home Games

12 weeks Varsity Practice each night (5 days per week) 2-3 times per

week Teener League Practice

1-2 County League Games per Week 3-4 times per

week Legion Practice

3 Day Tournament Football Practice Field

Events Schedule Event Description 10-12 weeks Varsity/Junior High/Youth Football Practice

4 weeks Nightly Little League Teams 8 periods per day Fall and Spring PE Classes

Band Practice Field

Events Schedule Event Description 10 weeks Nightly Junior High Football Practice

15-20 weeks Youth Football Practice 12 weeks Track and Field Events

8 periods per day Fall and Spring PE Classes 10 weeks Band Camp

Tennis/Basketball Court Area

Events Schedule Event Description 8 periods per day Fall and Spring PE Classes



Field Event Schedule: Middle School Facilities (Schedule Provided to Illustrate High School Teams Off-Site Use) JV Baseball

Events Schedule Event Description 12 weeks Nightly Junior Varsity Practice

10 Junior Varsity HomeGames 4-5 Teener League Practice

Varsity Softball

Events Schedule Event Description 12 weeks Nightly Practice

10 Home Games 4 Junior High Double Headers

10 weeks 4-5 nights weekly Youth Community Team Practice 8 periods daily PE Classes (Middle School)

Junior Varsity Softball

Events Schedule Event Description 12 weeks Nightly Practice

10 Home Games 4 Junior High Double Headers

10 weeks 4-5 nights weekly Youth Community Team Practice 8 periods daily PE Classes Fall/Spring (Middle School)

Soccer/Baseball Outfield

Events Schedule Event Description 12 weeks 4 Teams Nightly Practice

9 Boys Double Headers 9 Girls Double Headers

8 weeks Fall Youth Soccer Twice per Week 8 periods daily PE Classes Fall/Spring (Middle School)



Field Observations Stadium Football The Stadium Football field is located the farthest west from the existing school facility as compared to the other on-site athletic facilities. Built in approximately the late 60’s the facility has had minimal major restorations over the years. Many of the tertiary elements of the stadium are in need of repair and/or replacement. The following is an overview of on-site observations. The field intensity and schedule ofutilized for significant sporting event Turf Condition Observations: The field surface has experienced the typical expected wear at the mid field point as well as at the twenty yard line to the goal line and along the team bench sideline areas. There is little to no thatch present which in indicative of proper maintenance and cutting practices being employed. The Turf canopy appears to be relagrowth. The surface plane of field issignificant knobs visually present. Thowever, there appears to be no areas

events is provided above. This stadium is s throughout the school year.

tively dense as there is limited visual weed regular, limited areas of depressions with no he crown on the field may be worn slightly of water impoundment.

The root zone depth is greater than four
inches. This also indicates that good maintenance and care methods are being employed to maintain the field. The sample to view the root system showed a good number of deep roots.


Soil consistency in the sample yielded good texture and good particle size distribution with plenty of void space and little evidence of severe compaction. Top soil depth ranged from four to five and one-half inches with water infiltration rate under dry conditions of approximately less than eight inches per hour and under wet conditions approximately less than 1 and one-half inches per hour. Infiltration rates indicate that the underdrain system is performing satisfactorily. Facility Features: Goal Posts: The facility goal posts are the older type known as ‘H’ style. These were utilized in the past as accepted goal post installations but have since been deemed as unsafe and obsolete. The configuration of the H provides the unnecessary hazard of collision by a player. Current goal post installations are of the offset variety with a single support post. The support as it is, offset is placed farther outside the field of play and reduces dramatically the possibility of collision. Player Separation: The current configuration of the sidelines does not provide for a separation between the players and the spectators. This becomes a security issue for the players and coaching staff as well as the officials during game time. A simple remedy to help prevent is added security at the sidelines and throughout the facility during game time. Surface Drain Catch Basins: Outside each end zone are underdrain catch basins. These are not within the direct field of play and are generally inaccessible during game time. With their presence however, there is a potential for tripping as the basins are depressed. An upgrade to bring the finished grade of the grate to field surface could reduce some of the tripping hazard.



Irrigation Equipment: The field is provided with two main hydrant connections for irrigation. Unfortunately, the water provider will not permit watering of the facilities due to the absence of water usage monitoring equipment (water meter). Electric: Along each sideline in the team player areas there is electric service available. The connections were not verified visually but the covers for the junction boxes were noted. Fencing: The perimeter of the field is fenced with a chain link fence approximately seven to eight feet in height. The condition of the fencing is poor with several areas that have been repaired between the football stadium and the baseball field. In addition the top of the fencing is lined with barbed wire. The barbed wire and the condition of the fencing material create a hazard and potential liability for the District. Gates are provided at various facilities in the event of an emerqualified code inspector to deterstandards for the use and that stadium. Track: The running track that surroundmaterial. The facility is used infacility is not constructed to meevents. In fact, all track events arrequired standards. Measuremenand unrefined surface edges. Bleacher Units: The bleacher units at the stadiumake shift code compliant prapproximately 1,100 spectators is

locations around the perimeter to provide exit gency. These locations should be reviewed by a mine that the locations meet the required egress the sizes are adequate for the capacity of the

s the football field is a fine gravel limestone a very limited capacity due to the fact that the et the standards for high school track and field e held off campus at other facilities that meet the ts were impossible to take due to the unimproved

m are original construction with several small ojects executed over the years. Seating for available.



Constructed of a steel frame with wood seating and backing, the units are showing significant evidence of

HoandDis Asiblegen LigTheTherevageunrtimexpat rincnigare BuSevarebui It hbui

wear. Over the years there have been upgrades in an attempt to retro fit the units to meet today’s standards for code compliance. As existing structures, they are provided leniency in meeting the requirements of the code in effect for new construction by today’s standard.

wever, it might be prudent for the District to have a qualified code inspector perhaps a structural engineer review and evaluate the structures for the trict and provide a report on the current conditions and any remediation.

de from the code related items for which this study does not address, the acher units are in poor visual condition and are in need of some painting and eral maintenance. The structures are not ADA Accessible.

hting: field is lighted from 6 banks of fixtures. se were not observed during night but were

iewed during the site visit. The fixtures are d and it has been indicated that they are eliable as a system for lighting. At specific es it has been noted that the system eriences an overload and partially shuts down andom times. Lighting on the field of play is onsistent and areas of shadow exist during ht play. Illumination levels across the field not adequate.

ildings: eral buildings are located within the stadium

a. These include ticket booths, two concession ldings, and rest room/locker room facilities.

as been indicated during the study committee ldings are in fair to poor condition and should be c

meetings that the existing onsidered for replacement.



The ticket booths are at the north end of the stadium and are visually in fair to good condition with fresh paint. However, they are a concrete block construction and are dated due to the type of construction. There are windows available to serve four patrons simultaneously for entry into the stadium. The structure is built with a single roof and no other amenities other than limited electric and lighting. There are two separate concession buildings located on opposite ends of the field. The original structure is on the north west corner of the stadium. The facility is located well outside the area of play and provides a nice covered area for service. There are eight windows to provide service. Visually the structure is maintained in fair condition from the exterior. The staff that manage and operate the facility should be interviewed to determine the facility’s ability to serve the function. Should the facility fail to be able to providcapacity needed, future considerations for re The second concession building is located othe south east corner of the stadium. This wood construction.

Fivpatup Limstrustrupotnec

Rest Room/Locker Room: The restroom facilities are located at thesouthwest corner of the stadium area. Theblock and is visually in good condition. Aapplied to the structure. It is noted that the ithis study, is in poor condition and in nreplacement in accordance with committee m

e the ability to serve the users in the placement should be evaluated.

pposite field location as is the first in building is a newer facility that is of

e areas provide window service to
rons. The approach to the structure is a slight incline over gravel surface. ited amenities are available to the cture consisting of electric. This cture is in good condition and has the ential to be moved and/or relocated if essary.
farthest corner of the site at the structure is constructed of concrete

fresh coat of paint has been recently nterior, although not viewed as part of eed of repairs and upgrades and/or eeting discussions.



Scoreboard: The scoreboard is located at the south end of the stadium area. It is a newer installation that what would be expected when compared to the remaining amenities of the stadium facility. The face of the structure is sufficient in size to be visually recognizable from all areas in the stadium. Field Observations Varsity Baseball The varsity baseball field is located between the football stadium and the existing school building toward the western end of the site. It is used for varsity, youth, county and legion leagues as well as tournament play. There have been several upgrades to the facility and it has been well cared for over the years. Turf: The turf of site is intermixed with clover. Although there is good turf established the presence on clover indicates that there is significant compaction of the soil structure. This could be a result of years of utilizing the open area for parking during special events. The diamond area has good turf density established. Topsoil depth is approximately three inches. Dry conditions infiltration rate is slow to moderately slow at approximately less than four inches per hour - a result of the compacted conditions on site. The root zone depth is approximately four inches. Growth is not aggressive but fair with a fair distribution of roots in the root zone and a fair distribution of soil partial size in the sample. The infield pitchers mound transition is abrupt as well iskinned infield area to the grassed midfield area. Theseresult of years of augmenting the infield with additional mresult of infield mix addition the grassed infield area hasarea. This depressed area creates the hard transition pitchers mound. As a result, erratic ball movements canthat there is contact by the ball with these areas of severe The outfield turf has a good carpet created by a modgrowth of turf. There are present some areas of bareaddressed by overseeding. The plane of the outfieldconsistent and absent of significant knobs and/or depressi

s the transition form the abrupt changes are as a aterial. In addition, as a developed a depression on the approach to the

be expected in the event transition.

erately consistent dense ground that need to be is generally level and ons.



Facility Features: Along the outfield fencing, a warning track exists. This becomes significant in this facility due to the reduced outfield depth especially along the right field foul line. The recommended depth to meet NCAA play regulations is 330’. At this facility the right field foul line is situated at 306’ due to topography changes - 333’ in center field and 330’ in left field. The outfield fencing is in good condition and provides the screening material and top rail protection. The backstop is in good condition and has been backing for protection and long-term maintenance req There are no irrigation facilities on site other than athe press box/concession structure. The field lacks foul line fencing. Structures: The structures associated with the baseball field consist of two dugouts and the concession/press box structure. The dugouts are in good visual condition and are freshly painted. Their location is consistent with the requirements of NCAA and protection for the players is provided along the field face. The dugout facilities do not have drinking water provisions. Press Box:

The presis a coconcessiostorage bstructureconcessioequipmeservices opposite structurewith woo

fitted with the base rubber uirements.

hose bib connection within

s box for the baseball field mbination press box and
n service and equipment uilding. It is a two-story
. The first floor serves as a n service facility and

nt storage. Concession are accessed from the side the baseball field. The

is a wood frame building d siding.



The second serves as the press box area and scoring area. Amenities to the building include electric and water. The structure is situated directly behind home plate approximately four feet from the backstop fencing. Access to this area is restricted for the general public. The second floor is accessed from an exterior set of stairs located on the southern end of the building. Visually the structure appears to be in good condition. There are some areas of weathering of the wood siding and exterior areas. Some maintenance will need to be performed regularly to keep the structure in good condition. Scoreboard: Although the existing scoreboard is a newer installation, the size is significantly limiting to be visually legible from the assigned spectator area.

The assigned spectator area is to the rear of the backstop area flanking the first and third baselines. Portable bleacher units are placed in these areas. From these points the spectator is visually impaired due to the angle for which the spectator is viewing the game and also due to the requirement that the view is through the backstop fencing. As a result, spectators are providing their own chairs and are setting up a spectator area along the first baseline. This is a dangerous scenario due to the absence that there is no foul line fencing.

Field Observations Football Practice Field The football practice field is north of the football stadium and west of the site. The field is adjacent to a public alley known as John Miller Lane. This field is primarily used for football practice and physical education classes. During activities at the school grounds or during athletic functions this area is used for parking. The turf is in relatively fair condition. There are areas of significant bare spots due to the intensity of use for athletics and parking. There are depression areas and high points throughout the field surface creating an undulating play surface.



Goal posts on the site are old utility poles installed in the H configuration. These are dangerous elements in the field area. Band Practice Field: This area is used primarily for marching band practice and field event practice for track and field activities and for physical education classes. This area was not reviewed due to the fact that the proposed additions and renovations project to be implemented in the near future converts this area into a new parking area for much needed on-site parking. Likewise, the area located immediately outside the gymnasium to the west of the existing building was not reviewed as well because the additions and renovations plan converts this area into drive aisle and parking area. Field/Facilities Condition Summary The athletic fields included in this Study are typical of most public schools or other “public use” athletic fields. It is common for these fields to reflect the intensity of use and turf stress typically associated with continued use whereby turf recovery is severely challenged. Key points of the athletic field conditions and use include the following: The football stadium is in a state that severely limits the use of the facility. It is an outdated facility that has been maintained beyond the usefulness of the facility. The turf is beginning to show signs of difficulty in recovering in growth of the carpet from season to season. The bleacher structures are nearing a state of disrepair and fail to meet the standards for code compliance for new construction. Several attempts over the years have been initiated to maintain the structures in good and accessible conditions, but as time continues so does the deterioration. Infield improvements are warranted for baseball and softball field. This field appears to be maintained in fair to good condition but over the years the intensity of use is creating a field that is slowly deteriorating. The facility lacks some basic equipment (i.e. foul line fencing) and suitable spectator area. Routine maintenance of the facility is developing field conditions that can become erratic at times and the previous practice of parking in the outfield has compacted the soil structure that water infiltration and turf growth is suffering. More importantly, the outfield does not meet the depth requirements for NCAA play standards. The practice football field is extremely overused and in such poor condition that dangerous and unsafe conditions are beginning to emerge. The surface is developing significant undulating terrain and significant bare areas of hard dirt and soil situations creating fall hazards to athletes and students.



Many of the field areas are characterized by inconsistent turf conditions. There area many areas of clumped turf (“birds nests”), of low density or thin turf, or substantial areas that are bare and unlikely to naturally develope sustainable growth. Inconsistent turf not only affects play, but also presents a potential safety hazard. Summary Increase and intensity of use of the High School’s athletics facilities has slowly deteriorated the conditions of the fields and supporting facilities. An increase in the cultural practices incorporated in field maintenance along with more attention to nutrient management may improve the overall condition of most of the sport fields. However, with the current intensity of field use and demand as well as current repetitive use patterns will limit the success of even intensive cultural maintenance. Intensive cultural maintenance also may restrict field availability in the fall or spring seasons. As noted in the Introduction, it is the goal of the Bellefonte Area School District to provide athletic fields that are safe, provide consistent surfaces appropriate to the athletic activity/sport, and are sustainable to the High School field sports programs. More importantly, however, are the priorities established by the study committee that developed this study report and recommendations. As provided in the Introduction the study committee feels that the existing school facility site that houses the High School Building and supporting athletic and sport fields needs to focus on providing the necessary facilities for the curriculum of the High School. Through evaluation of the existing facilities and comparison of the programs of the High School it becomes apparent that the High School facility is too small to support all the functions required on site. At just over twenty-six and one third acres in total size the site houses the High School building and attempts to provide adequate exterior space to fulfill the needs of the athletic and inter-scholastic programs of the High School. Under the current conditions, the site is failing to meet the needs of the programs. To that end, the committee has concluded that that the District needs to develop a strategic plan to acquire additional land for the development of the Bellefonte High School competition athletic facilities. The school site and land area would then be available to meet the priorities of the Committee and be developed with facilities to satisfy the physical education curriculum.


Bellefonte Area High School July28, 2005 Athletic Field Use and Feasibility Study 25

III. Recommendation

General As discussed in this study, the limiting factor of the athletic fields at the High School is limited land area and aged existing facilities. Over the years the facilities that exist on-site at the High School facility have served the student body and the community well. However, as time has progressed so to have the sports and the athletes. Larger and stronger athletes have been emerging from our youth over the last 20 to 25 years. In addition, a greater number of students are participating in sports as the sporting venues continue to grow and become more diverse. Physical education programs have expanded their curriculum to explore and include new and emerging organized activities to better fit the life styles and desires of the youth. With the incidence of obesity nearing greater than 20% Nation wide, our youth are beginning to experience sedentary life styles and forming habits that are contributing to increased weight gain of our youth. In evaluating the existing facilities at the High School and the programmed events these facilities are supporting, the committee has concluded that the School District needs to acquire additional land area to provide a sports complex to fulfill the competition sport events of the District. The on-site land area would be developed to provide activity fields and facilities to support the physical education programs of the High School. These on-site facilities would be planned to provide to the District opportunities to provide a broad spectrum of activity options for the physical education programs. It is key, however, that the facilities on-site continue to provide and support interscholastic sports activities as well. On-Site Facilities It is envisioned that the on-site facilities will serve two primary purposes. The first is to fulfill the needs of the physical education programs of the High School, and the second is to achieve optimal use of the existing land area at the existing High School Campus. To achieve this, the area surrounding the High School that will remain as open area at the completion of the additions and renovations project will need to be designed and master planned in a manner that the sporting venues provided will not only serve the physical education programs during the standard school year, but will also provide secondary uses for inter-scholastic as well as community activities. To serve both the student body physical education needs and the community uses for on-site facilities the committee has developed a program of sports and activities to optimize the land area and attain the greatest use of the facilities at the High School.



The following program accounts for the current program activities of the High School curriculum and envisions additional activities to be considered for inclusion into the program of the physical education curriculum. These activities attempt to capture the essence of sporting activities in short duration to accommodate the class duration and student schedules during the normal course of the day. Most successful programmed activities to meet the needs of these parameters are activities that include those that are referred to as wellness/lifetime activities. Activities that fall under this general category are activities that a broad spectrum of individuals can participate in over the course of their lifetime. These are of a nature that varying degrees of difficulty are directly related to and controlled by the participants. Program Activity Tennis Power Walk Fitness Trail/Course All Weather Track Flag/Touch Football Ultimate Frisbee Basketball Sand Volleyball Skating Area (in-line, hockey, skateboard) Par 3 Chipping Course With limited land area available on-site at the completion of the Additions and Renovations project, it is imperative that the area be planned to best utilize the available land while preserving the newly designed parking areas. It is envisioned that the on-site area be developed as a track and field facility with an open playing area of sufficient size to accommodate a football field layout to be utilized for field sports. The sketch plan layout of the on-site area is provided for spatial relationships and orientation. The suggested plan depicts additional area immediately adjacent to the High School property on lands of the Centre County Housing Authority. This depicts approximately three and one-half acres for programming activities that cannot be accommodated on-site without the sacrifice of parking areas. In as much as parking availability on the school property is at a premium, the committee concluded that a suggested sketch plan that eliminated parking would not be in the best interest of the District. As shown on the sketch plan the area of the Housing Authority land is conceptual only and negotiation with the authority is needed. (Refer to Appendix A for the On-Site Facilities Sketch Plan).



Off-Site Facilities It is often difficult to determine the number of fields required to support public school athletic programs as well as justifying providing additional athletic fields. Many diverse opinions likely exist as to the number of athletic fields that are required to support Middle and High School athletic programs. These opinions are often shaped by the “expectation of quality” and often do not consider the maintenance and recovery periods required for athletic fields as well as the differences in field stress resulting from the varying intensity of certain sports and activities. It is the recommendation of the committee that the District develop the off-site facilities to meet the needs of the District for competition events. Also practice areas for baseball, soccer and softball will be needed. This facility would accommodate both Middle School and High School athletic team sports. Programmatically these are as follows; Football – Competition Stadium Varsity and Junior Varsity, Junior High Baseball – Competition Stadium Varsity and Junior Varsity Softball – Competition Varsity and Junior Varsity, Junior High Soccer – Competition Varsity and Junior Varsity Baseball – Practice Varsity and Junior Varsity Soccer/Multi-Purpose - Practice Multi-Purpose with Softball Overlay – Practice In developing the off-site facilities to meet the program activities, stress and overuse of the existing fields at the Middle School will be eliminated. The turf carpet will have sufficient time to regenerate as the intensity of use is decreased and strengthened maintenance practices will be able to be more readily employed with the decrease in intensity of use. In developing the competition facilities, it is highly recommended to develop a plan that capitalizes on shared use of infrastructure and amenities such as parking, restrooms, locker rooms, officials’ area, equipment storage as well as other items. Overall costs per field will decrease as shared use concepts are employed.



Land area requirements for athletic fields and supporting facilities are shown in the following table. It is noted that consideration is given to area requirements for storm water facilities as well as parking and circulation in the estimates provided in the Table.

Recommended Land Area Requirements Off-Site Facilities

Football – Competition Stadium 5.5 Acre Baseball – Competition Stadium 6.5 Acre Softball – Competition 6.2 Acre Soccer – Competition 4.8 Acre Baseball – Practice 6.5 Acre Soccer/Multi-Purpose – Practice 4.5 Acre Multi-Purpose with Softball Overlay – Practice 5.8 Acre

Sub Total 39.8 Acre (Land Area Estimates Include Parking and Stormwater Facilities)

Grandstands with Press Box Facilities (Home for 2 Stadiums) Grandstands with out Press Box (Visitors for 2 Stadiums) Field House/Locker Rooms/Public Restrooms Storage Throughout Facility Concession

Sub-Total 1 Acre

Total 40.8 Acre Funding This proposed recommendation would require funding sources for land acquisition, planning and design, and construction. To that end, it is recommended by the committee that the District employ a consultant to spearhead fund raising activities. A project of this magnitude will require significant monetary commitment through final implementation and construction completion. Sources are available through contributions, donations, endowments, trusts, alumni, grants, and other sources that a firm specializing in fund raising will benefit the District in securing the necessary funds for the project.


Documents

Athletic Field Use and Feasibility Study · Bellefonte Area High School July 28, 2005 Athletic Field Use and Feasibility Study 2 I. Introduction General The Bellefonte Area School