School leaders broke ground on a new track and field at Cardinal Mooney High School on Monday

The $1.5 million project was funded solely by donors. The multipurpose field will be usable in various weather conditions and will accommodate multiple sports like lacrosse, varsity soccer and junior varsity football.

The athletic director Carl Pelini, hopes the upgrade will also bring new athletic opportunities, such as hosting larger track invitationals. 

The fifteen year old track and field is uneven and worn out, posing safety risks for athletes. One school track star said she is excited to have a more reliable surface during the season.

"It will help all of us. It's going to be a big improvement for us," student athlete, Samantha Rotunno said. 

Members of the school say this project will not only benefit the students, but the community as well.

"We have brought youth football to this field. We have a seven on seven league that is open to the community and we will find other opportunities to open ourselves up to the community as well." Pelini said.

The track and field will be ready for use in August. After that, Pelini said they will be replacing the bleachers around the facility.