Upgrades to Panthers Stadium are nearing completion just in time for the new school year.

On Wednesday, a handful of school and district officials gathered at the field by the middle school to see the new LED lights switched on.

It was the final manufacturer inspection for the new lights, which are part of a larger effort by the Montezuma-Cortez School District Re-1 to improve safety at the stadium.

“Our first priority is keeping our students safe,” Superintendent Lori Haukeness said at the lighting.

The new light poles include lights slightly up the poles, which project light upward to help players see the ball in the air.

The track, which is being repaved with half-inch rubber membrane and painting, is set to be completed by Aug. 10.

Locker rooms for both boys and girls are being remodeled, and two new bleachers will be assembled for the girls softball field, in addition to a large one for the visitors section. (Apparently the Ignacio school superintendent fell through the old wooden bleachers at one point a few years ago.)

The goal posts will also be replaced – according to the Stadium Committee, the ones being installed are thicker and less likely to sway in the wind.

ealvero@the-journal.com