Upgrading the Weston Ranch High track and athletic fields could start next month.

That’s if the Manteca Unified governing board gives their blessing when they meet today at 4 p.m. for the staff to secure proposals for the work expected to cost $2 million. The meeting is taking place three hours earlier than usual at the district office, 2271 W. Louise Ave.

The work entails installing a new all-weather track, improvements to the existing site drainage and infrastructure as well as complete replacement of the exiting natural turf.

The field constructed more than 20 years ago has experienced wear and tear. Drainage issues have developed plus there have been concerns expressed about the safety of student athletes using the facilities

If the project starts in August, it would require 10 to 14 weeks to complete essentially eliminating regular use of the field for much of the fall sports season.

Having work start later would push it into the rainy season while doing it in the spring would impact track and fall sports.

And delaying it until next summer could easily add $200,000 to the price based on current construction cost trends.

The district intends to use one-time money from the state for the project.

Staff worked with Verde Design and the Department of the State Architect to employ the original 2015 application to the DSA for the project saving nearly $50,000 from the $150,000 the board authorized for the design process. The DSA must approve all major facility related projects on school campuses.

To contact Dennis Wyatt, email dwyatt@mantecabulletin.com