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TYNGSBORO — Greater Lowell Technical High School, several stakeholders and supporters will break ground May 23 on a new $3.4 million athletic complex that is fully accessible and compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Thanks to state funding through the efforts of state Sen. Edward Kennedy, Greater Lowell Tech is rebuilding the school’s athletic complex.
The new Gryphon complex is a 1,000-seater grandstand built around a multi-purpose grass pitch with an underground infiltration system and an eight-lane, 400-metre running track.
“This strengthens our championship track and field program, which has not been able to host a home track event for the past five years,” said Superintendent Jill Davis.
A new press box and sound system will also be built. Most importantly, the new sports complex will be fully ADA compliant and accessible to all spectators and fans with new handicap parking near the entrance.
“The athletic complex will be the new home for our Gryphon football, cheer and track and field programs. It also directly benefits our field hockey, soccer and lacrosse programs, as well as our physical education classes. It will also be provided for recreation and community service, which will impact the lives of many people for years to come, Davis said.
The campus is expected to be completed in November for the Gryphons’ Thanksgiving football game.
Students cheered loudly during speeches by Davis, School Committee Chairman Lee Gitschier, Plant Services Director Eric Gitschier and state Reps. Radi Mama and Rodney Elliott.
“It’s always like coming home to me when I come here, and there’s no day more special than today,” said the mother, a GLTHS student. “I want to congratulate all of you, especially the many teachers, counselors and coaches who help you.”
“We know that athletics and physical education are critical to youth development. We know that athletics fosters emotional and physical development and promotes teamwork, sportsmanship and athletic competition,” Elliott said. Gives an improved chance!”
Lee Gitschier spoke briefly, and his bottom line for the students was about them and their future.
Eric Gitschier said Davis has dreamed of renovating the stadium for years. He told students how administrators worked with U.S. Rep. Lori Trahan, Kennedy and the school district’s State House delegation to secure state funding for the project.
“Today we are giving this to all of you and saying, ‘This is your house,'” he said. “Whatever you do in that field will be your dream, and I hope that one day in 35 years you will have the opportunity to give something special back to someone else.”
“By investing in this project, we are investing in our students and our community,” Davis said. “I strongly believe in the benefits and value athletics provide to our school communities by engaging students, fostering teamwork, building self-confidence, instilling school pride, developing leadership skills and supporting their overall health and well-being.”
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