Middle School Track and Field Improvement Project Progresses at Thomas Jefferson, MLK, and Desmond Middle Schools
Madera Unified School District’s three middle schools -Thomas Jefferson, Martin Luther King Jr. and Desmond, are seeing exciting upgrades as part of the Middle School Track and Field Improvements Project. Phase 1 of the project is now complete, featuring major enhancements that will significantly benefit students and staff at all three schools, as well as the district’s elementary feeder school students.
The improvements in Phase 1 include the installation of a new all-weather track, brand-new turf and irrigation system at the football fields, upgraded areas for high jump, long jump, and shot-put events, new surrounding hardscape and landscape, and associated utility improvements. These upgrades have been finished at each campus, offering safer, more durable, and modern facilities to support physical education and athletic programs. Currently, the contractor is addressing final punch list items to ensure every detail meets quality standards before full use.
Students and staff are eagerly anticipating the official opening of these new fields, which is set for September. These state-of-the-art facilities will provide enhanced opportunities for student athletes to train, compete, and engage in physical activity throughout the school year.
Looking ahead, Phase 2 of the project will introduce additional key improvements, including a new concession and restroom building, new home and visitor bleachers for spectators, athletic competition field lighting, and new scoreboard. The design work for Phase 2 is already complete, and the project team is now awaiting final approval from the Division of the State Architect (DSA).
Once DSA grants approval, the project will immediately go out for bidding, with construction anticipated to begin in November. These upgrades promise to further enhance the athletic experience at Thomas Jefferson, MLK, and Desmond Middle Schools by improving facilities for both athletes and the wider school community.