Upgrades to New Kent High School stadium face possible delay, postponement

Upgrades to New Kent High School’s stadium have been put on hold as more information continues to be gathered.

The $2.3 million project would see the conversion of the current field to turf. Currently, New Kent is one of two schools in the Bay Rivers District without a turf field.

Superintendent of Schools Brian Nichols said that the upgrades would take place in phases. The high school track would account for phase one and the turf in phase two. A warranty for the turf would last eight years, with proper upkeep meaning they don’t have to do anything for more than a decade.

The turf would not only be substantial for football games, but soccer, field hockey, and the expected addition of lacrosse are sports that will utilize the field. Nichols told county leaders at New Kent’s Board of Supervisors Tuesday morning session that the new fields could bring in more revenue. For now, there is a three-month planning process with three months for installation.

Nichols said he had been working closely with New Kent County Administrator Rodney Hathaway, but county leaders want to see the entire grounds updated. Upgrades in the facility include restrooms and the concession stand. County leaders also were hesitant because of the possible lost of funding from Colonial Downs thanks to a proposal from the Virginia General Assembly.

A public hearing on the project may take play as early as November, but Nichols commented that they would like to break ground at the conclusion of the soccer season and have the field ready for the Fall 2025 season.