Eastridge High School Multi-Purpose Field

Stormwater Chamber System Installation Leads to a True Dugout Atmosphere

The Eastridge High School’s existing natural grass baseball field was constructed in 2015; however, the proximity of a spring-fed pond nearby and silty topsoil resulted in a very wet outfield. Because of this, the district was unable to play many of their home games each spring.

The design of a synthetic turf baseball field – with a practice soccer field included – allowed for year-round play, except during the winter season. To ensure the field would stay dry, we had to raise it. Because there was no room for a stormwater management facility outside the field, a chamber system was placed under the field, which in turn forced the field higher so we could keep the chamber system out of the high groundwater.

In addition, we had to tie into existing elevations adjacent to the field and avoid replacing the new tennis courts and roadway between the field and school. To accomplish this, the dugouts were maintained at the existing lower elevation and retaining walls were constructed to elevate the field. This created a true dugout atmosphere for the baseball players. Following this, the school district is looking to duplicate this design for their softball field.

An Exciting Project for LaBella

Check out the Fall 2019 issue of In Session, our semi-annual publication featuring lessons in design for K-12, for a more in depth story on the multi-purpose field at Eastridge High School.

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LaBella’s Eastridge High School Field Honored by the American Sports Builders Association (ASBA)

ASBA, the national organization for builders and suppliers of materials for tennis and other courts, running tracks, fields, and recreational facilities, annually recognizes tennis, running tracks, fields, and indoor facilities which exemplify construction excellence.

A panel of ASBA members judges entries on elements such as layout and design, site work drainage, base construction, surface, amenities, innovation, and overall impression.

In 2019, LaBella Associates won the “Single Field” award from the ASBA for the multipurpose field at Eastridge High School!

The Democrat and Chronicle has video of the field in action.