Student athletes at three Lafayette Parish high schools could be playing on newly renovated football fields in the fall.

The Lafayette Parish School Board passed a motion to begin the bidding process for football field renovations at Comeaux, Acadiana, and Carencro.  The board would also fund the project. Comeaux High School Principal Joe Craig says their football field along with the other two schools hasn’t seen updates in decades.

Craig says, “This is a long time coming…Just the fact that they’re looking at bids is a step in the right direction and we appreciate their support.”

Necessary renovations include replacing piping and resurfacing fields. The safety of football and soccer players along with the marching band is a major concern.

He says, “The sub surface structure and drain pipes have started caving in and so you get sink holes out in the field those spring up after a big rain in the fall we’re worried about the kids ankles and knees.”

Although safety comes first, a renovated football field has other perks that add to that Friday night magic.

The project will move forward once the Lafayette Parish School Board selects a bidder, but Craig hopes renovations can begin this summer.