Last Updated on April 20, 2023 by UDC Sports
As the love for sports only keeps growing around the globe, communities and organizations are investing in new athletic facilities to cater to the increasing demand. These new sports fields, tracks, and courts serve not only as centers for athletic excellence, but also as hubs for community engagement and development.
However, before laying the groundwork for building a soccer field, a football field, or even a shiny new sports complex, it’s sometimes necessary to tackle existing structures, concrete, or turf that need to be cleared away.
This critical step lays the foundation for a successful project, ensuring that the end result is not only aesthetically pleasing and fully functional, but also built to last—no matter what the size of the project is.
In this overview, we’ll give an overview of the importance of proper site preparation and uncovering everything beneath the surface to ensure a rock solid foundation for constructing a new field or other sports facility.
Note: This article provides a general overview of some of the steps involved in preparing the ground for a new sports field or athletic facility. It is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered as a comprehensive guide or specific instructions to follow. Each project has unique characteristics and requirements; therefore, it is essential to consult with experienced sports construction professionals to ensure the proper planning, execution, and completion of your project. Always rely on the expertise of qualified professionals to guide you through the complexities of your specific project.
Assessing the Site
Before breaking ground on a new athletic facility, a thorough site evaluation and assessment are necessary. This includes identifying any existing structures or surfaces that must be removed or relocated and surveying the area for potential issues related to grading, drainage, and soil composition.
Additionally, the presence of underground utilities, such as electric wiring, pipes, irrigation, and other potential obstructions, should be investigated. Engaging with experienced professionals and using the latest technology, like ground-penetrating radar, can help ensure a comprehensive and accurate assessment.
Removal of Existing Structures
Once the obstacles have been identified, plans can be made for the removal of existing sports field turf, structures, concrete/asphalt, turf, utilities/pipes, and so on. This may involve demolition or deconstruction of buildings and facilities, as well as the careful removal of any underground utilities.
Depending on the scale and complexity of the project, this process can require the use of heavy equipment and specialized tools. It’s essential that caution is taken and that all safety regulations are followed, as well as any necessary measures to minimize environmental impact.
Grading the Site
Grading the area is another process involved in preparing the ground for building a sports field, track, court(s), or other athletic facility. Proper grading ensures that the land is level, with appropriate slopes to facilitate drainage and prevent water accumulation.
A well-graded surface not only provides a solid foundation for the construction of the facility but also contributes to the overall safety, functionality, and longevity of the finished project.
Uncovering/Relocating Underground Obstructions
After grading, the next step is to uncover any remaining underground obstructions so they can be addressed prior to construction. This can be achieved through careful excavation, using specialized equipment to minimize disruption to the surrounding environment.
These obstructions can include:
- Pipes: Gas lines, water lines, or sewer pipes can be buried beneath the surface, and it’s crucial to identify and work around them before construction begins.
- Electric wiring: Power lines and other electrical infrastructure may be present underground and must be handled with caution to avoid accidents or damage to the wiring.
- Irrigation systems: Existing sprinkler systems, drainage pipes, or other irrigation components that can interfere with a new sports facility’s design and construction should be identified and accounted for during the planning process.
- Other utilities: Communication lines, fiber optic cables, and other essential services might be buried beneath the surface and require attention during the excavation process.
Uncovering these subterranean features is critical to the construction process, as it allows for any necessary modifications or relocations of utilities.
Constructing a Sports Facility on Solid Ground
With the site cleared, graded, and free of obstructions, the process can move forward, and laying the foundation for the new athletic facility is that much closer.
A solid sub-base might include layers of compacted soil, aggregate, and other materials to provide support, stability, and drainage for the finished field or facility.
The composition and thickness of this sub-base will depend on factors such as the type of facility, expected usage, and local climate conditions.
As with any step in the construction, proper installation and compaction of the sub-base are crucial to the long-term performance of the athletic facility.
The Bottom Line
The process of preparing the ground for a new sports field or athletic facility involves a series of critical steps, including assessing the site, removing existing structures, grading the area, and uncovering hidden obstructions.
These steps, leading to the construction of a solid sub-base, are all key to ensuring the success and longevity of a newly constructed sports field/athletic facility.
By investing time and resources in proper site preparation, the foundation is laid for an enduring asset to your organization and the community—and that’s a real win for everyone involved!
