Another chapter has been added to the storied history of Burlington, Iowa's Bracewell Stadium.
Since the fall of 2013, the Greyhound's stadium has undergone several upgrades, costing $4.95 million that's being raised by the Purple and Gray Foundation, a non-profit organization that assists the Burlington Community School District in developing athletic programs and facilities.
Stadium upgrades include: Installation of synthetic turf, new retaining walls, renovation and expansion of the Clark Field House locker rooms, a new press box, an upgraded scoreboard with capability of showing instant replay and LED stadium lighting.
"We are the first high school field in the nation to have LED lights," said Kevin Mueller, the President of the Purple and Gray Foundation. "The LED lights provide an evenly lit field that uses 50% less energy."
Mueller said Bracewell Stadium's notorious for implementing innovative technology.In 1929, the stadium was the first in the country to play high school football under the lights.
More than 90 years later, the stadium is retaining that inventive reputation, and Mueller said the community should be credited.
"It's just exciting to see everyone in Burlington support this community and the treasure we have."