Local Planning Committee and District Facility Plan - During the 2022-2023 school year, the Local Planning Committee (LPC) undertook the comprehensive planning process to develop the District Facility Plan (DFP). This plan, which includes the athletic project, reflects the prioritized needs of the district. The LPC consisted of 20 members, representing a diverse group of stakeholders, including parents, teachers, building administrators, community leaders, central office staff, a board member, and local building/zoning officials. After evaluating facility conditions, enrollment trends, and community needs, the LPC determined this project to be a priority for the district’s future.
Improved Safety and Accessibility - Outdated facilities may have uneven surfaces, inadequate lighting, or unsafe seating areas, posing risks to students and spectators. This project will address these issues by ensuring compliance with current sports regulations and modern standards. Additionally, new facilities will meet ADA requirements, including stands, restrooms, and other critical areas, providing accessibility for individuals with disabilities and promoting inclusivity for all spectators, players, and community members.
Upgrading Aging and Outdated Facilities - Some of our athletic facilities are approaching 40 years old and are showing their age. Renovations will replace aging structures, improve functionality, and ensure a safe, modern environment for our students, spectators, and the community.
Fairness for Our Students - Our students regularly attend away games where they play on more modern and higher-quality fields. Our students deserve access to facilities of a similar standard right here at home.
Restricted Funding - The money for this project comes from restricted funds that can only be used for facility improvements. These funds cannot be used for staff salaries or other general expenses.
Student Impact & Experience - These upgrades will positively impact a wide range of students, including, but not limited to those involved in ROTC, softball, baseball, football, soccer, track, tennis, golf, and band. Updated facilities will:
- Encourage physical activity, helping combat obesity and promote mental health.
- Provide high-quality fields and equipment to foster better skill development and athletic performance.
- Instill school pride and boost morale among students, staff, and the community.
Community Pride and Representation - Modernized facilities enhance both internal pride and external perceptions of our district:
- Many community members who may not enter a school building often attend sporting events. Upgraded facilities give them something to take pride in, reflecting our commitment to students and local engagement.
- For visitors from outside our area and those traveling Highway 231, athletic facilities are often their only impression of our community. Updated facilities will leave a positive impression, showing that we invest in our kids and value our schools and community.
Future Renovations - None of our school facilities currently meet the age requirement for major renovation funding from the Kentucky Department of Education (KDE). While two facilities will reach this threshold within the next 12 years, our projected bonding potential ensures we can address those future needs while still completing this athletic project. We take great pride in our school buildings and work diligently to maintain them, ensuring our students have excellent places to learn. This commitment will continue as we invest in our facilities to support education and the future of our community.
Centralized Restrooms and Concessions -Our current facilities are fragmented, with some lacking basic amenities. For example, the softball field lacks sewer access, meaning there’s no sink drainage, and water is only available via an outdoor hydrant. Centralizing restrooms and concessions for outdoor sports will address these issues.
Improved Transportation Efficiency -By relocating the tennis courts to a centralized area, we aim to create a dedicated bus loading zone. This change could reduce the time students spend on buses in the afternoons, potentially saving up to 10 minutes across the district.
Meet KHSAA Standards - For example, our current track does not meet KHSAA standards, meaning we are unable to host track meets. Upgrading our facilities will allow us to meet these standards and host events, benefiting both our students and the community.

Allen County Schools, KY

Athletic Fields and Facilities

Why invest in Athletic Facilities?

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How will the upgrades benefit the community?

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