New Stadium Construction Underway for Capistrano Valley High School

Categories: EducationSchool News

The construction of a new stadium is underway at Capistrano Valley High School, promising to enhance athletic facilities.

News Summary

Construction has begun on a state-of-the-art stadium for Capistrano Valley High School in Mission Viejo, California, with a budget of $21.5 million. The upgrade will enhance the school’s athletic facilities, increasing seating capacity and adding modern amenities. The new stadium is expected to be completed by May 2026, with the temporary relocation of graduation ceremonies to accommodate the construction. Funding comes from a combination of state matching funds and unused city redevelopment funds, reflecting a commitment to improving school facilities.

Mission Viejo, California has commenced construction on a new stadium for Capistrano Valley High School, representing a significant upgrade to the school’s athletic facilities. The project, which has an estimated cost of $21.5 million, aims to create a modern venue that replaces the old stadium, which has already been demolished.

The new stadium is set to be a state-of-the-art facility, enhancing the overall experience for athletes and spectators alike. Key features of the construction include expanded bleachers that will increase seating capacity from 1,886 to 2,750. Specifically, the home-side bleacher seating will grow from 1,312 to 2,000 and will feature a new press box. Visitor seating will also see an increase, going from 574 to 750 seats.

In addition to expanded bleacher capacity, the stadium will boast updated amenities, including a press box with elevator access, modern concession and ticket booths, team rooms, and a weight room. The track will be resurfaced and striped, complemented by improved fencing and a state-of-the-art sound system to enhance event experiences.

The construction project encompasses approximately 6 acres on the northwestern side of the 42-acre school campus. The groundbreaking event for the new stadium took place on May 28, and construction is projected to be completed by May 2026.

The staging of this year’s graduation ceremony at Capistrano Valley High School has been temporarily relocated to the Saddleback College stadium, set for June 5, due to the ongoing construction. This decision reflects the school’s commitment to student safety and the successful management of campus resources during the project.

Funding and Financial Background

The financing for the stadium construction derives from a combination of state matching funds and leftover city redevelopment funds. Notably, the project does not involve the pursuit of new bonds. In October 2022, the Capistrano Unified School District board approved around $7.1 million from expected state reimbursement money for the project, connected to prior construction efforts at Aliso Niguel High School and Newhart Middle School.

Funds from an old school financing district, known as CFD 87-1, are also being utilized for this project. This financing district was established in 1987, but homeowners ceased payments in 2016 after the bonds were paid off early, resulting in approximately $11 million allocated for school facilities. In 2017, district officials reached an agreement with Mission Viejo and Aliso Viejo to apply leftover funds towards science and technology building upgrades, while any associated state reimbursements would be directed to improvements at Capistrano Valley High School.

Construction Timeline and Future Prospects

Work on the stadium construction is already in progress, with the initial phase involving the installation of underground utilities underway. The actual construction of the new stadium commenced in February, marking a new chapter for the athletic programs at Capistrano Valley High School, which aims to provide an enhanced environment for both competition and community events.

As the construction progresses, the school community anticipates a venue that not only meets the demands of modern athleticism but also fosters school spirit and engagement among students, families, and the broader community.