HOWARD — Fans who arrive at Chet Looney Stadium next year are in for a surprise. The East Knox Bulldogs’ stadium is undergoing several renovations, including installation of a new set of bleachers.
Perhaps the most obvious of the changes in store for the fans is the new set of metal bleachers for the home and visitors’ side of the field. The previous bleachers were wood, and did not meet the codes required of high school stadium seating.
“It was obvious that the bleachers on both sides needed improvement,” said East Knox athletic director Derick Busenburg. “The stadium needed to be brought up to code. The bleachers we had before definitely did not meet code, and we are very happy to be able to replace them. The new ones will be safer for our fans.”
According to superintendent John Marschhausen, the renovations are being done to comply with “Jarod’s Law,” which redefined safety standards for schools. The stadium was lacking kickplates on the bleachers and walkways.
Although the new seating will be the first thing to catch fans’ attention, it is not the only improvement fans will see. The stadium is also undergoing some new concrete work, including a new walkway and extended sidewalks. The extended sidewalks will allow for freer walking room and overall space.
A new concrete pathway will run to the back of the press box, making it easier for coaches, announcers and members of the press to reach the press box. Fans need not worry about the famous Bulldog hill on the home side of the stadium; the hill will remain untouched and will maintain its status as a favorite gathering spot for fans.
East Knox is making the necessary changes to improve the overall security of the seating, but the stadium will maintain a similar feel. The tradition of the stadium will not change; fans will simply find themselves in a safer and more modern environment.
“These updates are for the safety of our spectators,” Busenburg said. “It will also be nice for the overall aesthetics of the stadium. We have a lot of tradition at this stadium and we are very proud of that, but we are always looking for opportunities to make improvements. This is a great opportunity.”
