The work at Allegheny Valley School District’s new multisport turf field isn’t quite done yet.
The district moved forward last week with a plan to develop a parking area off Butler Road, which would allow for handicap spaces and a drop-off zone.
Set in a grassy area between the new turf and a nearby baseball field, the lot would include about 20 spaces, according to School Director Nino Pollino.
The design would feature a one-way loop with a crosswalk. Drivers would use the existing gate on Butler Road as an exit, and crews would have to construct an entrance path, according to Pollino.
Officials are still working out the details with PennDOT, however, since Butler Road is state maintained.
In addition to about a half dozen handicap spaces, the lot would have a drop-off area for buses and spectators.
The remaining non-handicap spaces could be used for referees, coaches or others, Pollino said.
New Kensington-based architecture firm Canzian/Johnston & Associates is leading the project.
The high school’s student lot, across the street from the new field, currently serves as the main parking area on game days.
Springdale students, however, park in the rear of the building near the school’s D-wing and walk down Marion Avenue to access the field.
That rear lot also serves as general overflow parking for spectators.
The Dynamos played their first season on the new turf last year, but work remains for the track surface that encircles it.
Allegheny Valley Buildings and Grounds Supervisor Jay Zangrille said he expects FieldTurf USA, the firm responsible for the construction, to begin laying the new track in April.
To lay the surface, crews require several sequential days of warm weather — often a tall order in Pittsburgh’s tumultuous springs.
Still, Zangrille said he expects the new track to be complete by the start of football season.
As for the parking lot, things remain up in the air, Pollino said.
The board is hoping to have it completed by football season, but Pollino is unsure if that’s feasible.
