The Canyons Board of Education has voted unanimously to install artificial turf on the football field at Brighton High School.
Design work on the $1.5 million project will start immediately.
Land constraints have forced the Bengal football team and other BHS athletic squads to practice on the stadium field. This has caused holes and divots in the grass that are difficult to repair and maintain.
The installation of turf on the football field will help prevent injuries to players, said Amber Shill, a member of the Board of Education who represents the neighborhoods surrounding BHS. Brighton’s football stadium is the only one in the District that does not already have artificial turf.
“As a Board of Education, we are pleased to be able to invest in Brighton High in this way,” said Shill. “This year, Brighton athletes had several season-ending injuries due to field conditions. First and foremost, we want to make sure our students athletes are practicing and playing in a safe environment. Also, the addition of turf will put the Brighton High athletes on an even playing field with their peers across the Salt Lake Valley and beyond.”
Canyons District aims to finish construction on the project, which is part of Canyons’ 2015-2016 small-capital facilities list, by fall. However, the timeline for completion may be affected by inclement weather, availability of materials, and the work schedule of companies that specialize in turf installation.
Check out the District’s Facebook page for photos of Brighton student athletes celebrating the Board’s vote.