Como Park Senior High Athletic Field: Smart Upgrades for School & Community Play

Project Overview

BKBM provided civil engineering services for the transformation of Como Park Senior High School’s athletic field. The project converted a traditional grass field into a multi-use synthetic turf complex, with upgrades to bleachers, lighting, and track & field amenities—enabling the school to host home athletic events and community gatherings.

Project Highlights

  • Feasibility & Stormwater Management:
    • Initial discussions with the Capitol Region Watershed District explored using the athletic field as a regional stormwater facility.
    • BKBM was tasked with evaluating drainage areas, infiltration volumes, facility options, and cost opinions.
    • Determined the field could capture runoff from approximately 15.4 acres of surrounding surfaces.
    • Designed a 36-inch corrugated steel pipe infiltration system as the most cost-effective solution, with an infiltration volume of approximately 45,500 cubic feet and a total system capacity of 59,000 cubic feet—accommodating current needs and future expansion.
  • Efficient Project Delivery:
    • Faced with a tight summer construction window, BKBM expedited site analysis by leveraging available data instead of a protracted on-site survey, saving several months.
    • Rapid determination of drainage and impervious areas enabled the project to advance through reviews, bidding, and construction without delay.
  • Collaborative Funding & Execution:
    • The stormwater upgrade was a joint effort, funded by the City of Saint Paul, Saint Paul Public Schools, and the Capitol Region Watershed District.
  • Multi-Use Facility Enhancements:
    • Upgrades included synthetic turf, bleachers, modern lighting, and improved track & field facilities, creating a versatile campus resource.

Engineering Solutions

BKBM’s civil engineering team delivered a fast-track solution using innovative drainage design and regional collaboration. The project balanced performance, budget, and timeline by selecting a corrugated steel pipe system for infiltration and future scalability, ensuring regulatory compliance and maximizing project value.

Results & Impact

Como Park Senior High School’s new athletic field delivers a top-tier multi-use facility, effective stormwater management, and improved student and community experience. BKBM’s expertise brought the project to life on time, supporting both athletic pride and environmental stewardship in Saint Paul.

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