A number of Worthington's biggest success stories in recent years have come as a result of collaborative efforts. So, it comes as no surprise that three public entities are now working together to explore opportunities in potentially maximizing this community's recreational facilities.
Officials from Minnesota West Community and Technical College, District 518 and the city of Worthington all sat down together Tuesday morning for the first meeting of what -- for now -- is being deemed a "Sports Authority." As Ron Wood -- currently a city councilman, as well as a past president of Minnesota West and a former member of Worthington Regional Economic Development Corp.'s board of directors -- duly noted, "We're really doing a lot of sharing anyway. Probably if we get together, we could save some bucks and get a better set of facilities."
Some of the conversation Tuesday centered upon District 518's Trojan Field, and possible improvements to that site. District 518 Superintendent John Landgaard told those in attendance that proposed improvements such as new stands, track and fencing, along with the installation of artificial turf, would cost about $2.5 million.
We feel improvements to Trojan Field would be greatly beneficial for many, and would likely result in its increased usage. However, the most important consideration in determining the future of an improved Trojan Field is cost, and it will be interesting to see what District 518's financial share of bettering the facility might be.
While the city may be willing to utilize "impact dollars" -- a percentage of money from the Worthington Regional Hospital sale -- to help pay for Trojan Field, and Minnesota West would like step forward, too, District 518 will no doubt need to make a significant contribution. But are improvements pertaining to athletic facilities more important than what goes on in the classroom? That may be a tough sell.
