FALL RIVER: The dream of bringing an all-weather turf field to Lockview High School in Fall River has scored its first touchdown.
The new turf field, which has a Facebook page where updates will be posted, would include an additional road from the school out to Kinclaven; additional parking; bleachers; and a fieldhouse with washrooms. More than 1,700 names were signed to a petition that was put at local businesses. It would be utilized by the school and Dragons Minor football; rugby; and soccer associations in the area.
Councillor Steve Streatch presented the petition to staff at the Feb. 12 regional council meeting. He is in support of the initiative.
“I think this is a great initiative, not only for Fall River but for the catchment area of Lockview High,” said Streatch. “It’s a large area, and takes in a lot of families.”
Streatch wants people to know just like Rome wasn’t built overnight, nor will this turf field.
“Right now there are no new plans to construct any new artificial turf fields in this upcoming budget year,” he said. “But if you don’t start somewhere you will never accomplish your goals.”
He said he has had discussion with Lockview High administration, parents, and HRM staff. They all understand this is just the start of the process.
Streatch said it was brought up to HRM Parks & Recreation staff.
“I made sure to let them know this was a desire within the community,” he said.
He said he is encouraged to hear that there could be matching provincial funds for a project such as this. MLA Bill Horne had previously said he supported the construction of a turf field at the school.
Streatch suggested it could be in the not-too-distant future. It could be included in the 2020-2021 budget.
“This is definitely a need,” he said. “The Fall River corridor is very rapidly growing and there’s not only a need, but a desire for this type of facility.”
The province takes ownership of Lockview in Sept. 2020. It was one of several P3 schools they bought.
