Track & Field Facilities

• Design
• Construction
• Renovation
• Maintenance
• Rules & Regulations

Track & Field Facilities Construction & Reconstruction

Construction
One of the most valuable tools for track construction is the laser level. Since the track is meant to be level on the inside and outside edges, this instrument provides an accurate reading all the way around the track. The laser generation unit itself should be placed in a central location, such as the center of the field, and the rod with a "level eye" can be moved about the track edges to determine that the grade is correct. (The level eye can also be placed on a piece of grading equipment to assist the operator in leveling.)
 
Obviously, a laser level will not work if the track will slope end-to-end. Under these circumstances, placing grade stakes at 50 foot spacing with a .05 foot (approximately 5/8") change in elevation between stakes will allow the grading crew to establish a consistent 1% slope between the inside and the outside edge of the track. That makes the job a little harder than using a laser level.
 
If a track and a field are being built simultaneously, it's a good idea to keep heavy equipment used for the track off the field to prevent overcompaction. The plans and specifications may require the contractor to compact the field to avoid excessive settling, but remember that each time the soil is compacted, it needs to be scarified to improve its performance as a growing medium.
 
Reconstruction
As we said above, probably the most common reason to reconstruct a track is to convert a cinder facility to an all-weather track. This process begins with removal of all cinder material and the installation of the proper sub-base. When excavating the cinders, look for an old pipe drain down the middle of the track; many cinder tracks were built with these center drains in place. If such a drain is found, tear it out, because they generally do more harm than good. (As a rule of thumb, a poorly installed drainage system is worse than no drainage system at all.)
 
Reconstruction of an existing asphalt track involves the removal of the asphalt and the sub-base. As with sports facilities of all types, the real problem could be well below the surface. For example, the wrong granular material or not enough material may not have been used in the sub-base, the subsoil may not have been compacted or may not drain properly. Before constructing the new surface, identify existing problems and make provisions for correction.
 
In reconstructing a track, be sure to plan for proper surface runoff as well as subsurface water removal. Follow the steps for new construction in Section 16.2g, Installed Drain Systems and Catch Basins. Remember to isolate the track with interceptor drains, swales, or catch basins to collect surface water from the surrounding terrain before it reaches the track.