A pair of groundbreaking ceremonies were held on September 4 at Magna Vista and Bassett high schools to mark the start of new athletic field house projects.
Henry County Schools Superintendent Dr. Amy Blake-Lewis announced that the projects are slated for completion by the end of the 2024-2025 school year. “These field houses are funded by a one percent sales tax approved by Henry County voters in 2020,” she said. “This tax is designated for new construction and major renovations within our school division.”
Blake-Lewis expressed excitement about the projects, which have long been a goal for many on the Henry County School Board, as well as for community members, coaches, students, and staff. “We are thrilled to see these projects come to fruition and appreciate everyone who has supported this initiative,” she added.
The new field houses will serve as venues for athletic events and provide shelter for players during severe weather conditions.
At the Bassett High School groundbreaking, School Board Chairman Teddy Martin III, representing the Reed Creek District, thanked everyone involved in bringing the project to life. “We’re eager to get started,” Martin said.
Quality Construction of Danville was awarded the contract for the Bassett field house with the lowest bid of $1.94 million. Andy Grant, Senior Associate and Architect at RRMM Architects, outlined the facility’s features. “The field house will cover 4,633 square feet and include home and visitor locker rooms accommodating 70-80 people each. The home side will feature 70 oversized lockers, direct access to toilet rooms and football storage, a coach’s office, track storage, a training room, a referee changing room, and a laundry facility,” Grant explained. The building will also be handicap accessible, with a standing seam metal roof and brick walls.
At the Magna Vista High School groundbreaking, School Board Member Ben Gravely, of the Iriswood District, reflected on the long-term vision behind the project. “Field houses have been part of our capital improvement plans for nearly a decade,” he said. Gravely credited past and current board members for their commitment to modernizing school facilities.
Concrete Foundations Inc., of Gretna, was awarded the Magna Vista field house contract with the lowest bid of $2.79 million. Tammy Kost of Concrete Foundations expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work on the project. “We are committed to delivering a high-quality facility and ensuring that it meets the needs of the school,” she said.
Andy Grant also detailed the Magna Vista field house, which will span 5,748 square feet. It will feature similar amenities to the Bassett field house, including locker rooms, a coach’s office, a training room, and a concession area.
“The facility will be fully air-conditioned, equipped with LED lighting, and completely handicap accessible,” Grant said. The project will also include an alternate gravity flow sewer line for restrooms and concessions.
Both projects are expected to enhance the athletic infrastructure of Henry County Schools and provide valuable resources for students and the community.
