FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
LAGUNA BEACH UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
CONTACT: ANAKAREN UREÑO
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS AND ENGAGEMENT
949-497-7700 EXT. 5232 | AURENO@LBUSD.ORG

August 14, 2025

Laguna Beach Unified School District completes stadium turf, track replacement at Laguna Beach High School

LAGUNA BEACH, Calif. — Laguna Beach Unified School District has completed a major capital improvement project at Laguna Beach High School, replacing the stadium’s 10-year-old turf field and track with advanced, environmentally friendly materials designed to enhance performance, safety, and sustainability. The $1.165 million project included approximately $760,000 for turf replacement and $405,000 for the track surface overlay.

“After many years in education and on the Board, I’ve learned that the best investments are those that bring people together,” said LBUSD Board President Dee Perry. “This project is a thoughtful investment that will keep our kids active, our community connected, and enhance the health and wellness of our students and neighbors.”

The updated turf is free of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) and other fluorinated chemicals, providing a safer and more environmentally responsible playing surface. A key feature is Geofill, a natural infill composed of 80% coconut husks and 20% sand. This petroleum-free material mimics the feel of natural grass, cools the surface during hot weather, and reduces maintenance needs. The new Shaw Sports Turf field was installed in four weeks, a shorter timeline than most turf projects, thanks to a manufacturing process that weaves field lines and graphics directly into the turf material. This process eliminated the need for on-site installation of these elements.

“As one of the few shared-use playing fields in the city, this stadium is an important resource for school and community athletics,” said Ryan Zajda, LBUSD Director of Facilities and Sustainability. “Because it hosts activity nearly every day of the year, we worked to schedule the replacement in a way that minimized disruption. We appreciate the patience and flexibility of our regular community users throughout the process, and we’re excited for everyone to enjoy the improved playing surface for years to come.”

The turf’s permeable backing allows rainwater to drain quickly through the field into an underlying base system, preventing water pooling and muddy conditions. Unlike natural grass, which can become waterlogged or damaged during heavy use, the synthetic surface maintains consistent traction and playability in all seasons, reducing game cancellations and extending practice opportunities.

“LBHS is looking forward to hosting Santa Monica High School in our first home football game on Aug. 29, with a 7 p.m. kickoff,” said LBHS Principal Jason Allemann, Ed.D. “We are excited to share this state-of-the-art facility with the greater community and will hold a brief ceremony at the 50-yard line to mark the occasion. We are grateful to our community and the Board of Education for their support in making this project possible,” he concluded.

To learn more about the Laguna Beach Unified School District, visit www.lbusd.org. Stay connected by following @LagunaBeachUSD on Instagram and subscribing to the district newsletter (www.lbusd.org/itsawrap) for the latest news and updates.

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