The newly constructed asphalt surface at the Delta Secondary track will open to the public this month, with residents able to utilize the facility prior to installation of the synthetic running surface to be completed next spring.
The track replacement project — a partnership between the City of Delta and Delta School District, with funding from the province — began construction in June of 2024.
Completion was originally scheduled for November 2024, however, heavy rainfall throughout the month of October required postponing the installation of the synthetic running surface until the climate is within ideal range to ensure the quality of the track.
In the interim, the newly completed asphalt surface will be opened for public use.
“The DSS track is a vital community amenity, and the City of Delta is taking steps to ensure it remains open to the public as much as possible during construction,” said Jim Bauer, Director of Facilities and Major Projects. “The city is pleased to be able to make the asphalt surface available for the public at this interim stage while we plan for the laying of the final running surface and opening up the grass infield next spring.”
The project includes:
• Reconstruction of the existing running track with a synthetic running surface and long jump runways sized to fully accommodate para-athletes
• Creation of a new natural grass playing field with improved drainage and irrigation systems
• Pedestrian lighting around the track perimeter
• Expanded pedestrian connections from 45 Avenue to the track and adjacent Memorial Park.
In addition to the base layer of the track, the installation of the grass infield is complete. However, before it is suitable for public access, the sod requires time to establish a strong root system capable of withstanding repeated use. Due to minimal root growth over the fall and winter months, the field will be closed to all users until spring, allowing time for the root system to develop.
The updated amenity access timelines are as follows:
Grass infield: Closed to all users until the end of May 2025.
Running track area: Open to all users until mid-April 2025, then closed for surfacing installation from mid-April to the end of May 2025.
