Since November, LISD began installing new synthetic turf at Shirley Field which is home to the district three high schools Martin, Nixon, and Cigarroa High School. The new synthetic turf replaces the 12-year-old field turf installed in 2010 when the new Shirley Field was built.
Hellas Construction, Inc. is putting the finishing touches on the installation of a new surface at Shirley Field featuring Matrix HELIX polyethylene extruded monofilament synthetic turf. With the new turf Hellas installed one LISD silhouette logo at midfield and spelled out LISD in the two end zones.
“LISD had the opportunity to replace the field and add enhanced drainage and other improvements for $1.1M,” said LISD Assistant Athletic Director Luis Escamilla. “The new improvements will ensure a safe conducive competitive environment for our student-athletes.”
Along with the new turf, the new improvements include the installation of aggregated stone base material to ensure for adequate draining, CUSHDRAIN shock pad that helps prevent injuries, and Proprietary REALFILL unique silica pea gravel base and ecotherm organic infill to provide for a cooler turf.
Escamilla said the new turf at Shirley Field has an eight-year warranty.
Additionally, the track around Shirley Field was resurfaced. A new epiQ Tracks full-pour re-top track system was installed at the track oval, both “D” areas, and long/triple jump runways.
“The new track includes stripe lanes and event marking per UIL regulations for all events and a fast surface to continue a high-performance track and field facility,” said Escamilla.
Besides Friday Night Lights, LISD utilizes Shirley Field for elections, high school graduations, district leadership meeting, LISD Convocation, community walks, employee wellness, LISD Pew Wee Olympics, LISD Elementary Showcase events, UIL Band Competitions, Special Olympics, and Boys and Girls Club Track Meet.