The next step in constructing Quakertown's upcoming softball field is underway. The school board discussed preliminary sketches of the field at the Sept. 24 regular meeting, giving board members an opportunity to ask questions and make requests while things are still in the early stages of development. This also provided the public with its first opportunity to see sketches of the site and submit comments of their own.

            One detail that superintendent Lisa Hoffman explained to the board was that a softball field, being too small to accommodate soccer, field hockey, or baseball, would not be as multi-sport as some board members may have originally hoped for. However, the field will be large enough to accommodate practice sessions for non-softball sports and, where appropriate, will be able to be rented out for youth sports programs.

            Todd Hippauf noticed the location and height of the left field fence, voicing a concern that balls may be hit out of the field and go onto the properties of homes adjacent to the field.

            Amanda Hahn wanted to ensure that those properties were alerted to this upcoming project.

            Hoffman reassured both members that these things would be worked on.

            The district is still working with the Borough of Quakertown to begin getting things in order for construction. More discussion of this topic will continue to be had by the board, and the public will have other opportunities to submit comments regarding the field's construction.

            Regarding the ongoing process at Quakertown Elementary, Hoffman reported that construction is proceeding as expected, and new foundation work will likely begin in early November. Over the next two months, the site will see significant earthwork and removal of old material.

            The next QCSD school board meeting will take place on Oct. 22.