Dear Brighton Community,

What are your comments about the current field project? What other questions, concerns, or perspectives would you like to share?
 
PLEASE REVIEW THE INFORMATION BELOW AND THEN SHARE YOUR PERSPECTIVES USING THE FOLLOWING DIRECTIONS:

Tell us more! Let’s be sure that voices are heard from all sides on this issue in our community. 

To share anonymously by Jan. 16:

1. Click here: Turf Field Project Comments
2. Go to www.tejoin.com and enter this code: 328-507-588

Check back often to share more thoughts AND rate the thoughts shared by other community members.
 
Thank you for your continued engagement and thoughtful feedback regarding the CURRENT capital project to build new athletic fields behind Brighton High School. THIS IS NOT A NEW PROJECT.

Recently, the District was approached by a group of community members who had questions, wanted to provide feedback, and requested information, especially regarding environmental and design concerns. Following discussions at recent Board of Education meetings, a community forum was held Dec. 10 where architects, designers, and construction managers were available to review plans and answer your questions directly. We appreciate everyone who attended and shared their perspectives. We want to assure you that we are committed to reviewing all relevant data and information as the project moves forward.

The vote held in February 2024 resulted in 87% approval from our community—a strong endorsement of THIS project and its goals. These new fields will bring Brighton on par with other schools in our region, where similar facilities are commonly used. This project follows in the footsteps of work already done to enhance arts and academic facilities and ongoing projects to enhance the learning environment and safety of facilities for all students.
 
Our current turf field has already been used successfully in Brighton for 20 years for athletics, events and even our annual graduation ceremony. Our students—whether playing at home or away—often compete on turf fields more frequently than on natural grass. We’re excited for a future where our fields will be more accessible, inclusive, and equitable for all sports for both boys and girls. 

Our goal is to be responsive to those in favor and those asking for additional information, while following through on our responsibility to provide the best opportunities for our students and the community. It is also our goal to continue to provide clear, accurate information, and to be as responsive as possible to your needs. We recognize the impact of these decisions. 

Below, you’ll find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions we’ve received and an opportunity to share your thoughts and ask additional questions. 

Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of installing synthetic turf? (Remember, we already have turf. This project will expand on the current benefits being experienced.)
Synthetic turf will allow more students and community members to use the fields more often and at more reasonable times. 

Physical Education classes impacting all students at both TCMS and BHS will have greater access to fields throughout the day and earlier than ever before given the condition of grass fields in the early spring. 

Athletic teams will be able to practice at more appropriate times for students who are balancing their sport with studies, work schedules, and time with their families. Teams will have far fewer games rescheduled due to unplayable field conditions that are again the result of being on grass in spring weather in our area. 

Synthetic turf also increases accessibility for individuals who need wheelchair access, reduces the need for off-site games, and provides equitable facilities for all athletes in all field sports for all children. 

Why was the project designed this way? Was there a change in design?
The project was developed conceptually, and the community voted on the overall concept, goals, and funding. The final design reflects what was approved by voters. 

Only after community approval are detailed designs developed and submitted to the State Education Department (SED) for review and approval. Design changes at this stage would require re-engineering, new approvals, additional costs, and would delay the project significantly.

What is SEQRA and how does it affect this project?
SEQRA (State Environmental Quality Review Act) requires a thorough review of environmental, social, and economic impacts. The District worked with architects, designers, construction managers, and legal counsel to complete all required assessments, and the project received a “Negative Declaration,” meaning no significant adverse environmental impacts were found and no Environmental Impact Statement is required.

Are there concerns about PFAS or other chemicals in the turf?
Suppliers have confirmed that the rubber infill, underlayment pad, and synthetic turf are not manufactured with or intentionally include PFAS. Independent third-party testing has not detected PFAS above regulatory limits. The District remains committed to ongoing testing and transparency.

Will community access to the fields decrease?
No. Neighborhood access for students walking to and from school will remain. Regular use and access are expected to increase due to improved field conditions and durability of the synthetic surface. The fields are designed for both school and community use. 

What about stormwater runoff and groundwater concerns?
The project includes a comprehensive stormwater management plan to protect adjacent properties that fully complies with town, county, and state regulations. The mitigation area is designed to handle water safely and utilizes infrastructure that is underground, much of which already exists at the current fields. There is no expectation of standing water (not a pond in any way) or groundwater contamination. 

Why are the fields located and oriented as they are?
Field locations and orientations were chosen for playability, safety, efficient use of space, emergency access, and to maximize distance from property lines. The design also allows for shared utilities and future improvements.

Will there be field lighting?
There are no current plans for field lighting. Utility service design allows for the possibility in the future, but any such plans would require additional community input and approval.

How does current or proposed legislation affect the project?
The District continues to monitor legislative developments and will comply with all applicable regulations. There are currently no laws prohibiting the District’s installation of turf fields.

How can I get more information or share my concerns?
Tell us more! Let’s be sure that voices are heard from all sides on this issue in our community. 

Brighton residents, what are your comments about the current project? What other questions, concerns, or perspectives would you like to share?

To share anonymously by Jan. 16:

1. Click here: Turf Field Project Comments
2. Go to www.tejoin.com and enter this code: 328-507-588

Check back often to share more thoughts AND rate the thoughts shared by other community members.

Next Steps

• Ongoing Review: The District will continue to review all feedback, questions, and new information from community members, especially regarding environmental and design concerns.
• Project Updates: We will provide regular updates as the project progresses, including timelines for construction and any changes that may arise. Weekly updates will be posted on the website and in the District eNews.
• Community Engagement: Opportunities for community members to ask questions and raise concerns will be available throughout the process. Please watch for announcements about future forums, meetings, and communications.

On behalf of the Board of Education and the Leadership Team, thank you for your partnership and support.

Go Bruins!

Kevin McGowan, Ed.D.                            
Superintendent of Schools                                  
Kevin_McGowan@bcsd.org

Larry Davis                                 
School Board President
Larry_Davis@bcsd.org  

Christina Lee, Ed.D.
School Board Vice President 
Christina_Lee@bcsd.org