Grange: Work to resurface stadium track begins tomorrow

Minister of Sport, Olivia Grange, says work to resurface the running track at the National Stadium will commence tomorrow.

In a release on Thursday evening, Grange said the latest assessment has shown that there is an urgent need to completely resurface the track and there is an opportunity between the end of today’s Gibson McCook Relays and the start of the March 25-29 ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys and Girls’ Athletics Championships (Champs) to get the job done.

She said that Independence Park Limited, which manages the stadium complex, will ensure speedy implementation of the project working alongside Grand Slam Track.

“The new track will feature the latest performance technology and will present a bold image of Jamaica to the world, starting with Champs in March and then the global Grand Slam Track event in Jamaica in April,” the release said.

The following is the full statement from the minister:

“Nearly 14 years ago, I had the duty and the pleasure to lead the installation and to open the new running track at the National Stadium.

“Over the years, we’ve had to make several repairs to maintain the track. In 2021, we undertook major resurfacing. Since then, we’ve performed maintenance work as needed, but the latest assessment has shown the urgent need to completely resurface the track.

“There is an opportunity between the end of the Gibson McCook Relays on Saturday, and the start of Boys and Girls’ Champs in March to get the job done.

“We’re working around the clock to put everything in place.

“We’ve engaged a new supplier: Rekortan, which has 50 years of international experience in developing tracks.

“Materials have already been shipped; and engineers are already in the island doing the preparatory work.

“Thanks to the support of the prime minister, Dr the Most Hon Andrew Holness, and the minister of finance Hon Fayval Williams, we have secured funding amounting to US$350,000.

“Independence Park Limited, which manages the stadium complex, is ensuring speedy implementation of the project working alongside Grand Slam Track; and the work is scheduled to begin on Sunday, February 23.

“The new track will feature the latest performance technology and will present a bold image of Jamaica to the world, starting with Champs in March and then the global Grand Slam Track event in Jamaica in April.

“There is a lot of work to do but we’re committed to providing the best facilities for the best athletes in the world.

“We will work as hard as our athletes to ensure Jamaica’s success.”