$6 MILLION ATHLETIC FACILITY OVERHAUL COMING TO BROWN COUNTY SCHOOLS

MOUNT STERLING, Illinois — Brown County Community Unit School District Number One is preparing for a major overhaul of its athletic facilities, including a new track and extensive turf improvements.

The district plans to build a new six-lane track, install turf on the football and softball fields and add a turf infield to the baseball field. The high school student and staff parking lot will also be reconstructed as part of the work.

Superintendent Lan Eberle says the district has wanted to build a regulation track for several years. Brown County currently has around 100 students from fifth through 12th grade participating in track, but athletes do not have a traditional track on which to practice.

The improvements are expected to serve more than school athletic programs. District officials say the facilities will also be used by physical education classes and made available for community activities and potentially other local sports programs.

The overall project carries a price tag of approximately $6 million, with $4.8 million coming from a donation by the Tracy Family Foundation.

Brown County is also attempting to raise another $125,000 for track equipment, while additional fundraising could help pay for a concession stand and restrooms near the football field.

The baseball and softball improvements are expected to be ready for play this coming spring.

Major construction on the new track and football field is expected to begin in the spring, with completion targeted for July 2027.

Eberle says district leaders view the improvements as an investment not only in students, but in the broader Mount Sterling and Brown County community.