Kentwood — An indoor football field, soccer field, collaboration space, many athletic amenities, and a mezzanine with an upper walking track are major features planned for the district’s new multipurpose center on the East Kentwood High School campus.
Though excavation is already underway on the site between the Freshman Center and the 10-12 high school, Kentwood Public Schools leaders and community members hosted a recent groundbreaking ceremony, celebrating the future facility. It will be used for athletic practices, band rehearsals, STEM activities and more, and the walking track will be open to the community.
Sophomore Ismail Hasovic, a member of the East Kentwood soccer team, said the facility will be an amazing resource for athletes.
“It’s an opportunity. It’s a chance for students, no matter their background, or financial situation, to work hard, get better and chase their dreams. For a lot of us, especially those who can’t afford private training, this kind of resource means everything.”
The $30 million project, funded by a $192 million bond proposal approved in 2021, is being completed by construction firm Owen-Ames-Kimball and architecture and engineering firm GMB. It is expected to open in early 2027.
“This will be an opportunity for both young and old to experience an opportunity for wellness, togetherness and to build community,” said Superintendent Kevin Polston, referring to the space as a “a hub of learning creativity, competition and community.”
The 108,000 square-foot facility will serve as a practice hub for football, soccer, baseball, softball, men’s and women’s lacrosse, track and band. It will include dedicated space for the band.
According to information from the district, highlights will include:
- A 120-seat film room/classroom for game analysis and strategy sessions that can serve as flexible academic space
- A full-size football field for unrestricted practice and gameplay.
- A 55-yard-wide soccer field for dedicated team training.
- Two baseball batting cages for year-round skill development.
- A four-lane synthetic surface competition track for track and field events
- A dedicated pole-vault box
- A walking track integrated into the turf for additional training and community use
Junior Mariah Wright said she is glad there will be a facility for the marching band to practice in when the weather is bad.
“Having a facility like this makes it to where we can always be consistent, strive for excellence and be the best we can be,” she said.
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