The Columbiana School District has approved funding for nearly $200,000 in upgrades for the Ward Athletic Complex, a project that has been over 20 years in the making.

The money will be coming as an extension to a current loan that the district has paid down significantly, and will help with baseball field upgrades and the potential for an indoor facility. 

"This gives us an opportunity to utilize our property value, extend it out a little longer and go out and build some of those things that we really just wouldn't have the opportunity to do," Superintendent of Schools Donald Mook said. 

Mook stated that current plans for a timeline of improvements are being discussed. When it comes to funding, Mook credits the board of education and the treasurers for managing money for teachers, staff and education successfully. 

"Facility-wise, we probably need some help," he said. "Money that might've been directed towards athletic facilities and expanding on that was never really realized."

The plans for the district's softball field are continuing as planned.

Ward Athletic Complex is located at 700 Columbiana-Waterford Rd.