Turf may replace grass on Hill Field

University officials said yesterday they may resurface Hill Field with astroturf as one way to improve recreational fields at the University. Arthur Gravina, vice president for facilities management, said last week that for the next six months the University will be examining several options for developing the University's playing fields, including resurfacing Hill Field and developing land on the eastern side of the Schuylkill River. Gravina noted, however, that University officials have not determined if the project is financially feasible. He also said the project has not been prioritized. "With regards to Hill Field, we are looking into both artificial and natural turf, if we decide to do anything," Gravina said. "We are looking at many options." Hill Field is located next to the Hill House Dormitory Building on 34th Street and is frequently used by intramural sports teams. The University is also looking at 14 to 17 acres of land across the Schuylkill River from the University. This land, leased to the University by the DuPont Chemical Company, is currently undeveloped and is not being used. Assistant Recreation Director John Hamrick said last night that he would ideally like to see lights and artificial turf on Hill Field. "From a facilities standpoint artificial turf is better," Hamrick said. "Maintenance is minimal and it lasts longer -- you can see the condition of Hill Field." Hamrick also said that lights would be an important advantage since many of the fall season games begin at dusk and are forced to be played with little light. Hamrick said he hopes the University will consider establishing a shuttle system or escort service to bring students to the DuPont land if it is developed. Though several students interviewed yesterday agreed that the University's recreational facilities need improvement, not all agreed whether artificial surfaces were a positive move. "I would definitely say it's a good idea. There have been patches of rocks and dirt out there [on Hill Field]," Engineering senior Daryl Anderson said. "It is one big dirty patch. I hope they either clean up the grass, put in new grass or put in astroturf." Some students said that the DuPont land is too far away and the University should concentrate on finding land closer to campus. "It's kind of a hike," Engineering junior Ray Groatman said. "It's kind of inconvenient -- a lot of times you're just coming from somewhere, but you don't want to have to take [a shuttle service]."

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