Are we in the homestretch?

Construction of Milton Area High School’s football field and stadium is still underway after months of work.

Construction on the stadium began in June of 2021, according to Milton Area School District Athletic Director Rod Harris.

As of Sept 27, nothing with the project was complete, but the concession stand, restrooms, ticket booth, turf, and asphalt were almost done, according to Mr. Harris. The turf was laid the week of Aug. 12.

According to Mr. Harris, they will begin laying the track Oct. 25, which will be a three week process.

The addition to the school will consist of a health, wellness and fitness center, wrestling room, two locker rooms, as well as the athletic training room. According to Mr. Harris, it is expected to be completed in February.

The stadium was initially planned to be finished by Aug. 25, but according to Mr. Harris, “getting materials and supplies has been a problem.”

This current project on the stadium will be the first major update to it since it was built in 1948, said Mr. Harris.

“The initial startup cost for the stadium was $6 million and the addition was another $6.2 million,” said Mr. Harris.

At the end of July, Mr. Harris said that district officials knew they’d have to make accommodations for home games this season. This required him to get in contact with Central Columbia, Danville, and Bloomsburg athletic directors, who were willing to allow Milton to use their facilities for football games.

“It has been a difficult transition not having any home games this year.” said High School Football Coach Philip Davis. The team realizes it is nothing they have any control over, and just move forward, added Coach Davis.