Roadtown, Tortola - Work has begun to repair and improve the infield of the track of the A.O. Shirley Recreation Grounds.

The contracted company on Friday began phase one of the project which entails the spraying of the grass with herbicide. It was the first of eight times that the grass will be sprayed over the next three weeks to get rid of unwanted weeds.

Following the completion of that phase, the infield will be dug up to facilitate the levelling of the ground. During this phase of the project, the grounds will be closed to the public.

Assistant Secretary in the Premier’s Office with responsibility for Projects, Mrs. Elvia Smith-Maduro said “while Government recognises the increased usage of the facility in recent months, it is important that we undertake this project and temporary closure of the track is necessary to ensure the safety of all.”

Mrs. Smith-Maduro told the Department of Information and Public Relations once the ground is levelled, a horticulturalist will treat the surface. She noted too that “the public will be restricted from using the grass area during this period.”

All phases of the project are expected to be completed within three months. “Government is aware that the restrictions which will be instituted at various points during the project will inconvenience those who use the facility but we ask that you cooperate fully with the guidelines,” she said.
Mrs. Smith-Maduro further stated that the project is necessary to improve the overall usability of the facility.

“We have to get the A.O. Shirley Recreation Grounds up to standard to maintain our Class II certification by the International Amateur Athletic Federation because the infield should really be used for field events in track and field sports,” she stated.

The Assistant Secretary with responsibility for projects reiterated the value of the facility to the Territory. “The construction of the facility was a huge investment and it is important that we maintain it to ensure we reap maximum benefits for this and future generations.”

The rubberised track, officially opened in April 2008, is symbolic of Government’s commitment to the development of youth and sports in the Territory.