A significant upgrade to the Oak Park-River Forest School District's athletic facilities is on the table, as officials discuss a proposed $56,000 enhancement to the new turf field. The upgrade involves a state-of-the-art infill technology designed to lower surface temperatures, addressing safety concerns for athletes and students during hot weather.

During the Committee of the Whole meeting on April 10, 2025, district representatives highlighted the importance of this upgrade, noting that traditional turf can feel up to 15 degrees hotter than the air temperature, creating hazardous conditions for users. "On a 90-degree day, the field could feel like 105 degrees," one official remarked, emphasizing the potential for heat-related incidents among athletes.

The proposal comes as a change order, raising questions about why this technology was not included in the original contract. Concerns were voiced about the lack of communication regarding the availability of this advanced infill at the time of the initial agreement. Officials acknowledged that the oversight was due to a miscommunication during the quoting process, which did not account for the latest advancements in turf technology.

Despite the additional cost, the primary focus remains on safety. "This is a safety item first," one member stated, underscoring the need for a cooler playing surface to protect students and community members. While some expressed frustration over the change order process, the consensus was that the benefits of the new infill technology justify the expense.

As the district moves forward with this proposal, officials are committed to improving communication and ensuring that all future contracts include the latest safety features. The anticipated upgrade is expected to enhance the overall experience for athletes and contribute to a safer environment on the field.