Guilford High School not only has a new mascot, but a resurfaced field and track to display the Grizzlies logo. According to school officials, the track and the field are almost ready for use and should have its official opening by mid-November.

The approximately $2 million replacement of the artificial turf field began in June. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Paul Freeman said that the project will be important for the entire school system.

“Our main stadium and the field and track have needed this resurfacing for a long time. Our students and athletes will benefit tremendously from having this field and track back in service and like new,” said Freeman. “And the new Grizzly logo looks great.”

Not all residents may not know that the school fields and courts are open to residents after school hours and many receive heavy use. The tennis and Pickle Ball courts, basketball courts, fields, and tracks are used by a wide variety of Guilford residents and are for many an important part of their personal exercise and practice regimens.

GHS Principal Julia Chaffe said that the new artificial turf is important to all of the students, not just those who participate in sports. Chaffe also stressed the obligation to those non-students who have come to depend on a safe and pleasant way to exercise and socialize.

“This new field is going to be a tremendous asset not just for the teams who use it, but for the whole town who utilize it,” said Chaffe. “The track resurface is important, too, not only for track and field and cross country but for recreational use as well…We are really excited to get out there and use it.”

Chaffe said school system initiatives like these that sometimes come with a price that can cause taxpayers concern are a critical component of the school system and the town, and that all residents should be proud of their choice to fund this.

“It’s really wonderful to work in a community so supportive to students, and willing to fund a project like this,” said Chaffe.

According to town officials, the previous field was 11 years old, three years past its stated warranty of 8 years. The new field is anticipated to have a 20-year lifespan and the new track has decreased maintenance requirements.