If you’ve noticed a flurry of activity at the Alumni Field, it’s because the second phase of the capital project began this week, with the beginning of the much-anticipated athletic improvements on the field and track. The scope of the work includes the construction of a synthetic turf varsity field with a new eight-lane track, stadium bleachers and field lighting.
“We are excited for the athletic opportunities this project will give our student athletes for many years to come,” said Athletic Director Jeff Huneau.
In attendance at the groundbreaking this week were Superintendent of Schools Peggy O’Shea, Assistant Superintendent of Education Dan Martinelli, Board of Education President Nadia Carey, Board of Education Vice President Margaret Giller, Board Trustees Marianne Gendron and Sue Paradis, CHS Principal Laura Tarlo, Assistant Principal Heather Bradt, Athletic Director Jeff Huneau, Director of Facilities Jim Stapleton, coaches, students, and of course, our Cohoes Tiger!
Mrs. Carey addressed the group by thanking Superintendent O’Shea and her administrative team, as well as the community members for voting to approve the project.
“We are so proud to be taking this first step in turning this vision into a reality,” she said, before thanking the many student athletes who previously played on the field. “Please know that everything you left on this field will now be the foundation for the new facility. We cannot wait to be here on the finished field, under the lights in the fall to celebrate the victories which will surely be ahead.”
The new field, she continued, will be a source of pride for the entire community, “a place where we can come together to support our students.”
Other projects set for this spring as part of Phase 2 include new fire alarm systems at the high school and Harmony Hill, which will be completed during the second shift for minimal disruption. Work on the fire alarms in the other buildings will take place in the fall and winter.
This summer will see a myriad of projects, including the renovation of science classrooms at Cohoes Middle School, conversion of locker rooms to classrooms at Harmony Hill, exterior painting at Abram Lansing, and installation of new elevators at Harmony Hill and Van Schaick.
Learn more details about the upcoming projects here.
Please note: There will no longer be access to the track throughout the duration of the project. We look forward to hosting our students and community members this fall.