Renovations add new life to Nunley Stadium
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This summer’s “facelift” is the first major renovation work done to the stadium since it was constructed in 1957.
The focus of the renovation has been the repair of the stadium’s concrete bleachers, which in recent years have begun to crack and crumble.
“They’ve become a real safety hazard. It’s getting dangerous and could be a liability so the decision was made to fix them,” said school board Buildings and Grounds Committee chairman Larry Judkins.
The repair work, being completed by low bidder Apex Construction, involves reinforcing the existing bleachers.
This capping is being done by pouring new concrete, mixed with a bonding agent, on top of the old concrete. New hand railings are being added as well.
Also completed, with funds left over from the capping, has been the demolition of the visitor’s side concession and restroom facility. Judkins said this facility, too, was becoming a liability, due to its cracked foundation. He added a portable concession stand and restrooms will be used during the upcoming season.
Hopefully, Judkins said, money will be found next year to construct a new facility, as well as a new press box and home side concession stand. But, he noted, this may be just wishful thinking unless the Warren County Commission contributes money to the project.
To that effect, last month the commission’s Education Committee approved a 12-year, $1.2 capital outlay note which, if passed by the entire commission, would fund all of the renovation work at the stadium, as well as renovation work to the middle school auditorium and the construction of a multi-sport fieldhouse at the high school.
The 2003 Pioneer football season begins Aug. 22 with a home game against Livingston Academy.