New Superintendent Provides Update on Dennen Field Track Reconstruction

Just merely a couple of weeks into his tenure as USD 315 superintendent, Dr. Kevin Warner provided Colby Rotarians with an update on the long-awaited reconstruction of the Dennen Field track, he took time to explain why the project grew from a simple resurfacing into a complete rebuild while also highlighting the community support that has moved the effort forward.

Warner said the district originally planned to resurface the aging track, but that changed after crews began removing the worn rubber surface.

"We started grinding off the rubber, and the base is shot," Warner said. "It was actually condemned."

He explained that the asphalt foundation beneath the track had deteriorated to the point that portions of it were moving underfoot, making a resurfacing project impractical.

The district is working with Integrity Sports Management on the project and is awaiting additional core sample results to determine the final scope of construction.

Warner noted the current estimate is approximately $1.6 million for a full track rebuild. The school district has committed roughly $435,000 through capital funds, the wind energy revenue and monies previously budgeted for the resurfacing project.

Community fundraising has also made significant progress.

Warner reported the volunteer fundraising committee has secured approximately $245,000 in cash and pledges, and that number continues to grow through local donations and grant support. One of the latest boosts came through the Thomas County Community Foundation's Match Month campaign, where the committee received a $25,000 grant thanks to the generosity of local donors and the foundation's matching program in April.

The award underscores the important role the Thomas County Community Foundation has played in helping leverage community contributions into larger investments. By matching local donations during its annual campaign, the foundation has helped accelerate fundraising efforts while allowing residents' gifts to have an even greater impact on one of the district's largest facility projects.

"As a brand new superintendent, to have a community within two months raise that type of money — thank you," Warner said. "That's not true with every county or every city."

One of the biggest changes to the project is the decision to construct a seven-lane competition track instead of an eight-lane facility.

Warner explained that modern safety standards require additional clearance between the outside lane and perimeter fencing. The existing eighth lane has never been fully usable because of a raised concrete footing, meaning the district has effectively hosted meets with only seven competition lanes.

Rather than relocate fencing at a significant additional cost, the district plans to rubberize the outer walking lane while marking seven competition lanes. The compromise will cut cost to the project, but the sacrifice will correlate to the community being ineligible to host regional track meets due to KSHSAA standards. He noted that a fully compliant eight-lane track would increase the project cost to approximately $1.9 million.

Despite the financial challenges, Warner said the district remains committed to completing Phase One of the project in time for the 2027 track season. Future improvements, including locker rooms, concessions and restroom facilities, remain part of a potential second phase once the track reconstruction is complete.

"I'm optimistic," Warner said. "If you've donated, thank you. It's greatly appreciated. It's for our kids."

by Derek White