In 1970, the original Jay Stadium and football field was completed and was given a 25-year life span before replacement would be needed.
Unfortunately, due to a variety of factors the field was never replaced. Now, 20 years past its expiration date, stadium renovations have caught the attention of MAPS administration. According to Superintendent Wally Leipart, the issues at the stadium have been known for a while, but in 2013 the district decided immediate action was needed.
“Over time, the field at Jay Stadium has deteriorated,” says Leipart. “The deteriorating conditions at the stadium are something that has been on our radar for a while, but in 2013 we started receiving complaints from officiating crews. Something had to be done.
“That year, we made the Board of Education aware of the need for a major repair to the field,” he added. “That initial conversation led to other conversations. When looking at a sizeable project and investment like this, it’s important to consider all available options.”
“The irrigation system hasn’t worked for a few years now,” adds MAPS Buildings and Grounds Supervisor Bryan Plautz. “The failure of the irrigation system caused the crown of the field to deteriorate over time due to wear and tear from playing on it. Last year we brought in some black dirt to help. That worked out pretty well last season. We have dumped dirt periodically before that, as well as re-seeding it every year which is standard maintenance.”
“Dumping dirt is just a band-aid to the big problem,” Leipart adds. “We have been making temporary fixes to a longstanding issue. Now it’s time to do something about it. You can only patch things up so long.”
In its first step toward considering the future of the stadium and activities which rely on it, the district has turned to Stevens Point based “Point of Beginning,” a consulting firm capable of providing surveying, landscape, architecture and civil engineering services.
“Point of Beginning is currently working with us on exploring our options and coming up with a definitive plan,” Leipart explains. “We want to make sure we have our ducks in a row before presenting anything to the community.”
Examples of options currently under consideration include an artificial field surface over the current natural grass surface, a new irrigation system and track re-surfacing. A whole new stadium is also a possibility.
“An entirely brand new stadium is another option we are looking at. If we went that direction, we would be looking at additional seating, new restroom and storage facilities along with a new field and track,” Leipart adds.
Whatever option the district chooses, Leipart and Plautz indicate “Point of Beginning” would be the general contractor. Both men agree either project would not be a cheap investment by any means and at this point the district is in the very early stages of consideration and planning.
“We have not made any investments yet, not a single dollar. I feel that is important for the community to know. We are in the very early stages here,” Leipart says.
The only funding that has been discussed thus far is that necessary to keep the field useable. According to Leipart, that amount stands at $180,000 and is the bare minimum to make the field safe and playable.
“We fully understand at this point, the district could not finance this type of project on its own. On that note, we are considering a fund raising campaign such as recognizing donors with some type of patio blocks or wall of fame. Ultimately, donations are going to play a key role in whatever option we choose, so we feel it is important to recognize those who choose to contribute.”
“We are at that point where something, anything, has to happen over at Jay Stadium,” Plautz adds. “Even if we are have to take this in a phased approach, that is completely fine. At least it’s a step in the right direction.”
“Either way I think this is a fantastic opportunity for not only the community, but the alumni and the kids coming up through the program,” comments Merrill Football Booster Club Vice-President Mike Grunenwald. “Even though it’s very early in the planning stages yet, it’s apparent this will take some serious fund raising efforts. Nobody wants to see their taxes go up, which is understandable, so this will be up to the community to help make it happen. I am excited to see what the future holds.”