UPDATE: The Newton Community School District is taking swift action to address storage needs at H.A. Lynn Stadium after the removal of existing facilities. On July 14, 2023, maintenance supervisor Jack Suttek revealed plans for a new standalone storage garage, aiming to save the district over $40,000 in the process.
With the installation of new bleachers on the east side of the stadium, current storage capabilities will be eliminated. Suttek proposed the ambitious plan during a school board meeting, emphasizing the need for efficient storage as athletics programs expand. The proposed 30-by-60 steel building will serve as a vital resource for sports teams, particularly football, which requires substantial equipment storage.
Suttek outlined the financial strategy: the district plans to act as its own general contractor, utilizing Menards’ “Design & Buy” program to design the garage at a cost of less than $25,000. Construction expenses will add an estimated $15,000 to $20,000, with a concrete slab costing around $18,000. In total, the project is projected to cost approximately $63,000, significantly lower than the estimated $80,000 for hiring an external contractor.
The new facility will feature a dedicated stall for equipment, including the football field drag and groundskeeping tools, while the majority of the building will cater to coach storage needs. Suttek emphasized the urgency of this project, stating, “We want to be proactive in finding new space before losing our storage when the new bleachers are built.”
Athletics and activities director Ryan Rump is actively engaging with coaches to gather input on shelving and design options for the new garage. The building is set to be located against the fence near the long jump pits, ensuring easy access for equipment.
As the district moves forward with this plan, the savings on construction costs and the ability to customize the facility to meet specific needs reflect a strategic approach to resource management. The board and community eagerly await the completion of this project, which promises to enhance the athletic experience at H.A. Lynn Stadium.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops and the garage project progresses.
