The Spartan Stadium and Field Replacement Project is a priority of the Quillayute Valley School District. The Quillayute Valley School District Board has earmarked $1 Million dollars of undesignated and unreserved funds for the replacement project.

Last spring, the District completed preliminary work to estimate the cost of the replacement of the field and stadium in preparation for applying for grants and funding. The District applied for a grant in collaboration with the City of Forks through the Recreation Conversation Office in Washington State last May.

Early last week, the District was notified that the grant ranked Number Three in the state and that we would be receiving a quarter of a million dollars for the Field Replacement. These funds can only be used for a field replacement.

The dilemma for the District will be whether or not they accept the grant funding. The entire cost to put in an artificial field is approximately $1.25 million dollars.

This project would deplete the earmarked savings for the field and stadium replacement. If the Board of Directors decide to accept the grant, the work would be completed before the 2016-17 school year.

The work for the field replacement would begin in late May of 2016.  This opportunity would give all of our students in the school district and in West End Youth League a safe field for year-round usage.

The Recreation Conservation Office rotates grant funding alternate years for Youth Athletic Facilities (fields, etc.) and Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program (recreation field buildings).

The District could apply for the grant this coming spring, but it would require matching funds like the Youth Athletic Facilities grant.  The approximate cost for building a replacement stadium (without the concessions or restrooms underneath the structure) will cost approximately $850,000.  A complete stadium will cost approximately $1.25 million dollars, as well.

The District’s intention is to not ask for voter’s approval through levy or bond dollars.  The District would like input from the community as to whether or not we accept the grant and move forward with the field, knowing that we have not yet secured the funding for the following year to rebuild the stadium.  Any input would be valued and appreciate, as we have a community that figures out ways to make things happen for Forks’ youth.

“The District would like to make the best decision for our youth and community,” stated Diana Reaume, Superintendent.  “I would also like to thank Bill Henderson, Jessi Wilson, Rod Fleck and the City of Forks for the time and consideration they have put forth into this grant opportunity.”

There will be a survey posted on the district website at www.qvschools.org  for your input.

The District will also hold a special meeting for community members to voice their ideas and suggestions on Tuesday, Nov. 17 from 5-6 p.m. in the Forks High School library.  There will also be forms available for input in the District Office at the receptionist’s desk. Or call the District Office and speak to Superintendent Diana Reaume at 360-374-6262.