Fauquier County Public Schools has nearly completed new artificial turf fields at Fauquier High School’s Kelican Field and Kettle Run High School’s Cougar Stadium. The upgrades are designed to provide safer playing conditions, greater durability and expanded year-round opportunities for student-athletes and the community.

The School Board approved the project Jan. 10, selecting Hellas Construction as the vendor. The board also authorized Superintendent Dr. Major Warner to transfer $1.4 million to Fauquier County and update the cooperative agreement between FCPS and Fauquier County Parks and Recreation to include the new fields. Work began in June and is expected to be completed in September.

“These new fields are a game-changer for our student-athletes,” said Jerry Carter, interim activities director at Fauquier High. “Kelican Field has always been a point of pride for our school, and with the new turf, our athletes and community will enjoy a more reliable playing surface that can withstand year-round use.”

“Cougar Stadium is the heart of so many student experiences — from Friday night football to marching band competitions and community events,” said Paul Frye, activities director at Kettle Run. “The turf field ensures these traditions continue on a surface that reflects the excellence of our programs and the support of our community.”

Division leaders said the projects reflect a broader investment in both schools and communities. Turf fields provide consistent access for multiple sports, reduce weather-related cancellations and extend opportunities for other community and county programs.

Dedication ceremonies are scheduled before kickoff at each school’s first home football game on the new turf. Fauquier High’s dedication will be Sept. 12 at 6:45 p.m., and Kettle Run’s dedication will be Sept. 26 at 6:45 p.m.

Visit www.fcps1.org to see the progression of these projects.