Lobo Stadium could have a new look when the defending State Champions take the field in August.
During Monday night's regular meeting, LISD trustees authorized Chief Financial Officer Joey Jones to seek Requests for Proposals (RFPs) to replace the artificial turf field and track at Lobo Stadium.
Jones said the district is going to contract with McKinney-based Sports Design Group to oversee the project. The $19,500 contract covers schematic design through closeout. Funds for the project will come from the district's general fund balance.
'The current turf is approximately nine years old and in need of replacement. Resurfacing will extend the utilization of the existing track for several years,' he said. 'We're going to contract with Sports Design Group to evaluate the scope of the project and prepare all specifications, should the Board approve it.'
Construction at Lobo Stadium is expected to begin shortly after graduation ceremonies (May 17) with the project completed in time for the Lobo's 2019 football season.
Athletic Director/Head Football Coach John King said the facility is a vital part of numerous extracurricular programs at Longview ISD, such as band, ROTC, 'and many members of our community enjoy walking and jogging around the stadium.'
'Lobo Stadium is a highly sought-after venue for regional competitions of sports and marching bands,' he said. 'The entire Lobo community takes a lot of pride in our stadium, and we will continue to maintain and improve this facility however we can,' King added.
LHS Tennis Courts
Lobo Stadium isn't the only facility getting a face-lift.
Board members also accepted a $51,300 bid from Bullard-based Pro Tech Construction to resurface the LHS Tennis Courts.
Jones said, after evaluating all the bids, the administration determined that the quote from Pro Tech, 'provided complete maintenance features that would preserve the integrity of the courts for a longer period of time which the administration feels is the best value for the district.'