A new track facility at Delta Secondary in Ladner is moving another step closer to reality.
The City of Delta announced this week that work was about to get underway on the $5 million project in collaboration with the Delta School District.
The construction involves the installation of a modern synthetic running surface, offering enhanced durability and performance for athletes, and more uses, while the natural grass playing field will undergo upgrades, including advanced drainage and irrigation systems to ensure optimal playing conditions year-round.
The city notes that long jump runways will also be installed to accommodate para-athletes, fostering inclusivity and accessibility.
The city added that to enhance community access in the evening and early morning, pedestrian lighting will be installed around the track perimeter. As well, pedestrian connections from 45 Avenue to the track and the adjacent Memorial Park will be expanded, promoting connectivity and accessibility.
The initial work will consist of, among things, removal and disposal of the existing gravel-based running track, sports infield and associated underground drainage systems, as well as construction of the infrastructure.
According to the city, the track and field are both to be completed and reopened for the public this November, while the grass infield will be open to the public by February 2025.
The project received a funding boost last year from the province.
The city established a new reserve fund, called the Growing Communities Reserve Fund, where the one-time grant of just over $16 million to Delta was directed for the DSS track upgrade as well as a second artificial turf field at Mackie Park in North Delta.
