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Pearson Community Center debuts upgraded track and field facility

North Las Vegas residents have a newly improved track and field complex just in time for the cool weather.

Clark County Commissioner Lawrence Weekly celebrated the reopening of the facility at the Dr. William U. Pearson Community Center, 1625 W. Carey Ave., late last month.

“This was a beautiful facility when it was built, but we discovered that the track and field area didn’t meet the requirements of the (NCAA) and the USA Track & Field,” said Weekly. “With this new update, it allows young people with the aspiration of making it to the Junior and actual Olympics to achieve their dreams because now the area is in compliance with them.”

The reopening celebration was themed around the Olympics, which included an Olympic-inspired torch-lighting ceremony and fireworks display.

The improvements took a year to complete, according to Weekly, because “we completely replaced the whole section.” The track surface was replaced, along with adding pole vault and long jump runways and pits. The track was resurfaced with special running-track specific material, and new lane markings and a low railing were installed.

A new concession stand was built, and the bleachers were replaced. The track is now able to accommodate meets of all kinds and all levels, Weekly said.

In addition to the new pole vault and long jump areas, the track now also has designated areas for field events such as the javelin and hammer throws.

“The area looks amazing now,” said Adela Correa, who uses the field to walk three times a week. “It’s bigger and has more things, like the bleachers. Everything looks brand new and clean.”

Funding for the project was provided as part of the county’s capital project fund and cost roughly $2.91 million, according to Erik Pappa, the county’s spokesman.

Since its reopening, the complex has welcomed the Jackson State University Marching Band — nicknamed the Sonic Boom of the South — which performed for 3,000 attendees, according to Weekly.

The track originally opened in 2008 and has been a popular site with local track clubs and others involved in track and field. Weekly said the field area is for everyone to enjoy, from seniors taking an early morning walk to families looking to exercise and student athletes practicing for competitions.

“This is just a beautiful open space for people to come, exercise and enjoy great track meets,” he said. “It’s a way to bring the entire community together. It’s a win-win for everyone.”

Visit lvul.org/dr-william-u-pearson-community-center or call 702-455-1220.

To reach North View reporter Sandy Lopez, email slopez@viewnews.com or call 702-383-4686. Find her on Twitter: @JournalismSandy.

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