It will likely be the fall before the new outdoor sports complex at Great Lakes Secondary School [GLSS] is opened up for community use.
Brian McKay, the superintendent of business for the Lambton Kent District School Board, said students at the high school have been using the track and field as staff work out its operations and maintenance.
"It is very different from anything else that we have," said McKay. "I know that they started right in the fall of integrating the track into their phys ed programs and, my understanding is, elementary schools will be able to use it in the spring."
McKay confirmed with Sarnia News Today that the project was completed in 2022.
He said he understands the community is anxious to use the state-of-the-art, eight-lane track, and the artificial turf field.
"It's a great facility, I get it, people want to use it. I think I would ask people just to be understanding of the school as they learn about the facility. How to maintain it, how to use it, and yes, all of those items -- such as track meets -- will come."
McKay said the rentals will eventually be scheduled through CLASS Shared School Services, adding that an information package was still in development.
"They're building that brochure on what's available, how to use it, how to book it. So, I know a draft was just circulated to the school for their comments. It's just that time to learn how to use it and integrate it into the process."
He expects it will be the fall before it's open for community use.
"They may run a few trial events in the spring, so they're ready for the fall."
The $5.5 million facility will be able to be rented for a variety of sports activities, including football, rugby, soccer, lacrosse, field hockey, Ultimate Frisbee and track and field meets.