What's Happening?
The Laguna Beach Unified School District has finalized a $1.165 million renovation of the athletic facilities at Laguna Beach High School, featuring a new turf track and field at Guyer Field. This upgrade comes just in time for the fall sports season, enhancing the venue known for its scenic views of the Pacific Ocean. The renovation includes environmentally responsible features such as Geofill, a natural infill made from coconut husks and sand, which cools during hot weather and requires less maintenance compared to natural grass. The new field is free of fluorinated chemicals, commonly referred to as PFAs. The installation was completed over four weeks, with the track resurfaced by Beynon. The football team has already begun practicing on the new turf, and classes at Laguna Beach resume on August 21, with the first football game scheduled for August 29.
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Why It's Important?
The completion of the new turf at Guyer Field is significant for both the school and the local community, as it serves as a shared-use playing field hosting activities nearly every day of the year. The environmentally friendly features of the turf align with broader sustainability goals, reducing maintenance costs and environmental impact. The upgrade enhances the quality of the playing surface, potentially improving athletic performance and safety. The investment reflects the district's commitment to providing state-of-the-art facilities for students and community members, fostering a supportive environment for sports and recreation.
What's Next?
Laguna Beach High School will host Santa Monica for the first football game on the new field on August 29, marking the official opening of the renovated facility. A brief ceremony at the 50-yard line will commemorate the occasion, celebrating the community's support and the board of education's role in making the project possible. The new turf is expected to attract more events and activities, benefiting both school athletics and community engagement. The district will continue to monitor the field's performance and maintenance needs, ensuring it remains a valuable resource for years to come.
Beyond the Headlines
The installation of the new turf at Guyer Field highlights the growing trend of schools and communities investing in sustainable and environmentally friendly infrastructure. The use of Geofill and the absence of PFAs reflect a shift towards safer and more responsible materials in public projects. This development may encourage other districts to adopt similar practices, promoting environmental stewardship and innovation in facility management.
