ALLENTOWN, Pa. – On Thursday, the Allentown School District Board of Directors announced plans to move forward with a project that will enhance the Dieruff High School practice field.
District administrators received approval from the school board to begin additional design and planning for the project, according to a news release from the school district.
Officials say the proposed upgrades will revitalize the practice field at 820 E. Tilghman St. with a redesign that includes a new field house, improved weight and restroom facilities, portable bleachers, upgraded lighting, soil rehabilitation, a synthetic turf field, and a new track with expanded opportunities for track and field events.
Early cost estimates place the project between $15 million to $18 million, with construction expected to begin in spring 2026, according to the release.
“Enhancements to our infrastructure represent an important step forward for our students, our athletic programs, and the entire Dieruff High School learning community,” Superintendent Carol D. Birks said. “Research shows that students who participate in sports & extracurricular activities are more likely to attend school regularly, perform better academically, and are better prepared for success after graduation.”
As outlined in the district’s strategic plan, creating environments where students feel safe, valued, empowered and loved has been identified as a key area of focus for the district.
The district says that with this approval, they will begin the design, bidding and procurement process from late November through December, with additional approvals anticipated in early January.