Cedar Rapids, IA
Shive-Hattery provided design services for improvements to the varsity stadium at Prairie High School. The project included a new synthetic turf field, the addition of seats, replacement of the visitor’s side bleachers, and new perimeter fencing. Additionally a new entry plaza was created which included a storage building with integral ticket booth, entry gate, donor monument, lighting, seating, and landscaping.
The centerpiece of the project was the replacement of the existing natural grass field with a new synthetic turf field. The existing field was used heavily, including a full lineup of football games as well as marching band competitions. Keeping the field in playable shape was a significant challenge for the maintenance staff, particularly in late fall at the end of football season. Replacing the natural grass field with synthetic turf provided the district with a safer field that looks great throughout the year.
As part of the field renovation, the long jump pits were relocated to the D zones to allow room for a competition soccer field. The old visitor bleachers that had become a safety concern were replaced with new ones and the home side added 1400 seats.
The project was paid for with private donations and SILO Taxes. A key element of the project was the creation of a donor monument to recognize their contributions. The names of the donors are inscribed on stone panels installed on the monumental entry gate. Every fan entering the stadium walks through the gate and past the names of these donors.
The renovated facility provides an improved experience for athletes and fans.
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tags: high schools, synthetic turf