Good news for local athletes who’ve long wondered why they couldn’t use the high school track. As part of an agreement between the City of Coronado and the Coronado Unified School District, as of October 1, 2016, the CHS track and field is now open on weekends, school breaks and most holidays from 6 to 10 am for public use.
In June, the City of Coronado and the Coronado Unified School District worked out an agreement to open up some school facilities for community use. The opening of the track and field is part of that agreement.
The City of Coronado and the Coronado Unified School District invite the community to the Coronado High track and field at 8 am on Saturday, October 22, to celebrate the opening of select district facilities for public use.
The high school track and field opened to the community, per the agreement, earlier this month; however, the planned grand opening is intended to help get the word out to the community, letting runners and walkers know that the all-weather track is now open on weekends and most holidays from 6 to 10 am.
“This agreement helps us address the dual goals of providing a way for the city to continue its strong commitment to its public schools while maximizing the use of school facilities for the public good,” said City Manager Blair King. “It also helps the city provide its residents with valuable park and open space.”
Said CUSD Superintendent Karl Mueller: “The opening of district facilities for public use illustrates the strong partnership we share with the City of Coronado. I applaud the efforts of our School Board and City Council to formalize this agreement which celebrates our shared commitment to provide safe spaces and encourage our community to engage in healthy activities.”
Agreements between schools and municipalities for public use of district facilities are not uncommon. Through a resolution signed in June, the city council approved the one-year agreement that offers free weekend use of school district outdoor facilities including, but not limited to, athletic fields, playgrounds, the gym, and tennis courts. The agreement also makes school facilities available to the Police and Fire Department for training and drills. The City’s Recreation Department will have access to district facilities for special recreation services. In return, the city will pay the district $370,000 per year, plus the costs of light custodial services. The agreement can be renewed from year to year.
As part of the agreement, the school district facilities will be open on weekends, school breaks and most holidays. The high school is located at 650 D Ave. The track and field is accessible from Sixth or Seventh streets near F Avenue. King and School District Superintendent, Karl Mueller, as well as elected leaders will speak at the grand opening.
