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Barrington High stadium to get new artificial surface

After about 11 years of use, Barrington High School's stadium will receive a replacement artificial surface in time for the next academic year.

Barrington Area Unit District 220 board members Tuesday night voted 5-0 in favor of a deal with FieldTurf USA Inc. to install the new surface for a price not to exceed $700,000, with the tab being paid from the capital projects fund. Officials have said the projected cost is about $100,000 less than originally projected.

"We're really at the end of the useful life of the turf and replacing the turf will ensure the future safety and playability in our stadium," said David Bein, assistant superintendent of business services.

FieldTurf was installed as part of the new Barrington Community Stadium unveiled in August 2008, but officials said it is nearing the end of its life. Similar to that used by many other suburban schools, the playing surface includes sand and rubber particles between plastic fibers in an effort to provide players better footing and shock absorption.

However, the replacement surface will be different, officials said. Under the plan, FieldTurf will install its multisports surface - which doesn't have the sand and rubber infill - designed to withstand greater wear and tear, according to the company.

Barrington High's football, soccer and lacrosse teams use the field, along with marching band, physical education classes and youth sports feeder programs. FieldTurf is projected to complete the installation by mid-July, a month before the first Broncos football practice.

Athletic Director Mike Obsuszt said he surveyed several high schools and received positive feedback about the field approved for purchase Tuesday night.

FieldTurf will credit District 220's bill for using current material. FieldTurf installed the original surface.

Barrington High's stadium at the beginning of the 2018-19 school year received several upgrades, including a new main scoreboard, funded by private sponsorships totaling $650,000.

District 220 officials reviewed several companies for the replacement turf. FieldTurf's proposal was deemed the best, just ahead of AstroTurf.

Pricing, performance, safety, installation, service and warranties were considered in selecting the winner, Bein said.

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