College proposes new site for lacrosse field
The College recently announced its intention to build a new artificial-turf athletic field in a different location than it had previously planned, following a local controversy about the original site. Residents who lived near the patch of land originally slated for the project complained of potential traffic and lighting problems. Although College officials considered several new sites, including one near the Hanover Co-op Food Store, they eventually selected a location adjacent to a wetland and near the original Tyler Road space, according to College Athletic Director Dick Jaeger. The artificial-turf field is designed to have less surface run-off from precipitation than the existing grass field. The turf will enable the athletic department to simply plow any snow and precipitation off the field, allowing athletes to start practicing as early as February 1 each winter, Jaeger previously told The Dartmouth. Jaeger said yesterday this new plan requires approval from the town zoning board. The field, to be used for lacrosse and field hockey, will not disturb the wetland, which Jaeger described as "a drainage ditch" near "the corner of the field." Tim McNamara, a consultant representing the College, told the Valley News the field will be made of "knitted nylon product" that will not affect the environment. Some local residents said they still have concerns about the project. Resident Fred Crory said he wants "to make sure it complies with zoning ordinances that apply to athletic fields." Crory explained that the town planning board "is waiting for the judge to rule one way or the other on the rugby case." This case will affect the possibility of the College declaring all "future buildings as educational," Crory said.