Reconstructed Hurd Stadium Could be Ready for June Graduation

Plans for the reconstruction of Hurd Stadium could have it ready for the June graduation ceremony for the BHS Class of 2016, according to Mayor Mike Cahill.

In April, a report stated that the Hurd Stadium bleachers should be condemned and are a significant liability risk.

This week, Cahill announced a plan to address the issues at the stadium.

This fall, the city will tear down all existing stands and will also issue a request for proposals, as required by state law, to build 2,000 seats of new stands on the current visitor’s side of the stadium.

Projected cost for this project is $550,000, according to the Mayor’s office. Once the existing home stands are removed, the city’s Department of Public Services will clean up that side, smooth out the terrain and plant grass allowing for spectators to also stand and sit on.

“Our goal is to complete construction in time for next June’s High School graduation, although that is an aggressive timeline.” Mayor Cahill said. “The High School football program will return home to Hurd Stadium for their fall 2016 season.”

Hurd Stadium attendance shows that 2,000 seats, fewer than the current configuration, will be sufficient for most games, according to the Mayor’s office. In the event a regular season or home playoff game projects to attract a larger crowd, the city will rent portable stands at an affordable cost to accommodate the larger crowd.

“Next fall Hurd Stadium will again be home to Beverly High School’s football team, cheerleaders and marching band,” said Cahill. “We have worked through this process as quickly as possible while being thorough and responsible.”