Will people lose their jobs because of this project?

Nobody’s job will be impacted based on spending for the Capital Project. The funding associated with the Capital Project is separate from the 2021-22 school budget, which is where staff salaries are configured.

Why will there be a soccer field when the school does not offer soccer?

While determining the scope of this proposed project, the district kept in mind the broader community. From flag football, to little league, to soccer programs, the Weedsport community heads multiple sports programs, and each of those teams would have the opportunity to use the turf field. 

Do we need a turf field?

The turf field is just one piece of a major overhaul to the entire athletic complex. Replacing the track and field will bring many added benefits with it. The community will be able to take full advantage of these upgrades, and youth sports will be able to use this upgraded turf field for their leagues. Turf is durable, easy to maintain, and will expand the amount of time student-athletes are able to use the field during rainy/wet seasons. Physical education classes will also be able to take full advantage of this new space as an outdoor classroom.

How often would an updated track and turf field be used?

This project would benefit all students, not just student-athletes, along with the community. The district expects both the track and turf field to be used for 9 months of the year. The field would be lined for soccer, football and field hockey. Baseball and softball teams would be able to use the space to practice when their field is too wet in early spring or during rainy periods, and a power source would be available nearby for pitching machines. Physical education classes would also take advantage of having an outdoor space to use. The district expects summer sports leagues and youth programs to use the field, and the community would be welcome to use the grounds for physical exercise.

Will the new athletic facility be accessible to everyone?

Accessibility is very important to the Weedsport Central School District. Both bleacher areas will be accessible to all with newly updated walkways. The project would also include a new bathroom facility built near the athletic complex, that will be accessible and available during all sporting events.

Does the auditorium get used enough to warrant an upgrade?

The music program at Weedsport has been a great source of pride for decades in our community, and the auditorium venue has been a site for memorable performances ranging from concerts for all levels, high school and middle school musicals, and even community-based events such as dance recitals and veteran-based ceremonies. While the district has made cosmetic upgrades to the auditorium through the years, the state of the sound system needs to be addressed, as it is nearing the end of its lifecycle. The project would also address the current inconsistent lighting throughout the venue.

What is the timeline for the work to be completed?

Phase 1 of the proposed project (primarily the roofing) would begin in May of 2022, with Phase 2 (primarily track and field work) planned to begin in the fall of 2022, while being mindful of our interscholastic sports schedule. The entire project would be completed by August of 2023.