WSU has commenced the $6.5 million improvement project as part of the Recreational Playfield Improvement scheme, under which an artificial surface will be installed on the outdoor grass fields. The new surface is expected to ensure safety, regardless of weather conditions. New fencing, reconfiguration of lighting and leveling of the playing surfaces are included in the scheme to provide premiere conditions for every play event.
The drainage issues at both the fields will be addressed by a new subsurface drainage system. This system will collect water below the surface of the fields in pipes and will be directed to the city storm system. A center spine will split the Valley Road field into two and will provide shade and seating areas.
The Valley Road Playfield improvement project is scheduled to be completed by January 10, 2011, while the Grimes Way Playfield scheme by October 2010.
Valley Road Playfield is the second most utilized recreation facility on the Pullman campus. The Recreational Playfield Improvement project has been in development for years with an objective to provide a safe, available location to allow students to access playfield space for a wide variety of activities year round.
