SHILOH — The North Dorchester High School Replacement Project has provided not only an award-winning building for academics and arts, but also new athletic facilities.
“All of the competition and practice athletic fields have enjoyed the last 10 months of grow-in as they now enter dormancy for the winter,” Engineer Chris Hauge said in a statement. “They will be ready for service as soon as warm weather hits this spring.”

Eagle Stadium now enjoys full bleachers and a press box. The next step, Mr. Hauge said, is to run power to the press box and to relocate there the “head end” of the scoreboard/sound system/video display board from the existing equipment storage building.
“Not only will this enhance events, but the video display board and four sponsor opportunities on the scoreboard will provide a funding opportunity for the sports boosters and/or school,” Mr. Hauge said.

With the substantial completion of the athletic field fencing project, all of fall and spring sports venues are now protected by perimeter fencing. Additionally, each sports venue is also fenced to maintain safety for athletes and spectators.
While the construction has involved substantial investments of state and local funds, savings were found where possible.

“We reused virtually all of the ‘old fencing’ (in addition to the athletic field lighting) from the original stadium from when it was renovated about 10 years ago,” Mr. Hauge said. This will now allow for admission to be charged for all of these events. “Those receipts will go a long way to help fund Eagle athletics long into the future,” he added.
Also completed is the fieldhouse, a facility that greets fans as they approach the entrance. It contains a ticket window, concession stand and team room.

Lockers will be fabricated and placed in the team room this winter. Final research on potential starter equipment for the concession stand and athletic equipment storage systems is underway. Site furnishings have also been ordered.
“There is nothing like this on the Eastern Shore, except maybe at the University level,” Mr. Hauge said. “This project is virtually complete with a few loose ends to tie up. We now have a 21st-century, master-planned, secondary campus that anyone would give their eye teeth for. And its ours, yours, here. Can’t wait!”

David Dodson is known as an information technology guru, especially as it applies to high school sports. He has volunteered his expertise for many years at the region’s events, helping to make them as modern and efficients as possible.
“Very nice looking facilities,” Mr. Dodson commented on a social media post announcing the project’s status. “One suggestion I will make is when the scoreboard equipment is relocated, to also add wires and internet to the press box as well. This will allow things like live results and live streaming in the future.”

“Thanks, Dave,” Mr. Hauge replied. “Did not mention it, but we are on it.”
The replacement school’s design was created by the architectural firm Hord Coplan Macht. The finished concept has earned a design award in recognition of its functionality and attractive appearance.

“The future looks bright in North Dorchester,” Mr. Hauge said. “Thank you to the best project design and delivery team in my career.”