BLUEFIELD, Va. – Joint public hearings were held this evening by the Bluefield Town Council and Planning Committee to hear the public’s comments and concerns on the proposed construction of an athletic stadium at Graham High School.
Tazewell County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Christopher Stacy presented information about the stadium that will seat 4,000 visitors for multiple sports including football, soccer, track and field events.
Along with sports, the stadium is expected to hold high school graduation ceremonies and other school events.
Currently, the Tazewell County Public School System pays $60,000 a year to play at Mitchell Stadium that is owned by the City of Bluefield. They also pay the East River Soccer Complex $10,000 a year to hold their boys’ and girls’ soccer games.
During the hearing, residents and property owners that live around the stadium had the opportunity to voice their concerns that included safety, parking, traffic, noise, and light pollution from stadium lights.
Voices that are for the construction of the stadium say it’s time to give the G-Men a home. They said that having the stadium would not only benefit students but the community as well
“You drive by, and it’s got a big G-star,” said Stacy. “This is home for these kids. It means something to have your own place. Whether you’re out for P. E. class or just a stroll, I think the community can embrace this. I think a lot of them already have.”
After the public hearings the Planning Committee discussed in an open-door meeting considering all public’s comments and concerns, they heard tonight.
At the conclusion of the regular scheduled Town Council meeting the committee recommended to the council members to schedule a second public hearing so they would have time to discuss the public’s concerns in the Planning Committees December 2 meeting.
The date or time of the second public hearing has not been finalized.
Stay with WVVA as we continue our coverage on this story tomorrow.
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