Chester voters approve proposed interscholastic athletics facility capital project

The Chester Union Free School District is excited to announce that voters approved the Interscholastic Athletic Facility Capital Project on December 16, 2025. The project was approved by a vote of 415-154, pending certification by the Board of Education. This approval marks an historic milestone for the district and community.

The next steps are to begin tree felling, which will take place from January through March 2026.  Final project design will be submitted to NYSED with expected bidding scheduled for the fall of 2026.

Following a comprehensive two-year feasibility study and extensive community engagement through forums and presentations, the community voted to move forward with this transformative project that will serve students, families, and the broader Chester community for generations to come.

The modern, multi-purpose athletic facility will be built on approximately 20 acres of undeveloped land received from the Town of Chester, adjacent to Chester Academy and Chester Elementary School on Hambletonian Avenue. The facility will include a multipurpose synthetic field, an eight-lane track, grandstand seating with a press box, field house and additional amenities.

This project directly supports the Chester Union Free School District’s 2025-2026 Goals & Objectives in three critical areas:

• It advances student learning and opportunity by expanding physical education instruction district-wide and offering career-connected learning opportunities in athletic training, sports management, event operations, and media production.
• It strengthens communication and collaboration by creating a welcoming, inclusive space where all students can engage as players, performers, or spectators, while serving as a venue for school-wide and community gatherings that reinforce Chester pride and unity. 
• It enhances facilities for safety, efficiency, and student success. The project creates a secure single point of entry and brings existing sports programs to a new on-site facility, eliminating the need for off-campus locations and reducing transportation and rental costs.

“This project underscores our dedication to empowering every student to reach their highest potential, while celebrating and strengthening the pride that unites our schools and the Chester community,” Superintendent Catherine O’Hara said. “On behalf of the Board of Education, we extend our gratitude to the many individuals whose efforts contributed to this outcome, including our administration, teachers and staff, students, parents, and community members. From participation in community panels to thoughtful dialogue and the creation of the district video, this collaborative engagement reflects the pride that defines Chester.”

We are investing in our students, strengthening our community, and building Chester’s future together.

“Once again, we appreciate your vote of confidence in us and this project and look forward to sharing updates as the work progresses," Ms. O'Hara said.