KEYSTONE HEIGHTS – Keystone Heights High is eagerly awaiting the completion of its new track field.

“It’s exciting. It needed to be done. It’s going to be a nice addition to our stadium,” said athletics director Charles Dickinson.

The school’s original track field was built in the late 1970s and had succumbed to age and Florida’s harsh summers. Before construction started, the track had loose asphalt with clumps of grass growing in the gaps and faded lanes which made it unacceptable for competition.

Unlike the original track which was just asphalt, the new track has a rubber surface. Construction for the new track consisted of removing the old track and applying a special type of asphalt which is compatible with the rubber surface. Afterward, the rubber surface and seal were applied to the asphalt as a top layer. In addition, a new fence and sidewalk were built to help protect the field.

The school is waiting for the final phase of construction which involves the lanes being painted.

“It should be done by January,” said principal Laurie Burke.

The new track is expected to bring benefits such as school pride. In addition, the school will be able to host track meets which haven’t been possible since 1998.

Once the track is complete, the school plans to buy new equipment like carts, hurdles and starting blocks to host future track meets.

“Our goal, not for this track season but hopefully the following track season, is to be able to do something in regards to hosting a track meet,” Dickinson said.

The new track will bring the community closer and provide more activities for families to enjoy.

“You know in a small town like Keystone, it’s a big deal to go to one of these events during the week,” Burke said. “I mean it’s kind of the thing to do here in Keystone and you feel a sense of pride for your whole community.”