Malcolm X. Shabazz High School, Multipurpose Athletic Facility

Newark, New Jersey

Firm

Clarke Caton Hintz

Client

Newark Public Schools

Total Cost

$12,300,000

Completion Date

10/2001

The Malcolm X. Shabazz High School Multipurpose Athletic Facility includes 15 acres redeveloped for a variety of programmatic elements. These include an eight-lane polyurethane running rack; synthetic-surface football field with grandstand seating for 4,200 spectators; two softball fields with bleacher seating for 500; four tennis courts; and a new athletic fieldhouse.
The 6,700-square-foot fieldhouse includes team locker rooms, public restrooms, storage and concession facilities. Site lighting, as well as perimeter security fencing, landscaping and ceremonial arches, has been installed. In addition to athletic events, the facility also will be used for band competitions, concerts and graduation ceremonies.
This urban site had been occupied by more than 50 abandoned and dilapidated residential structures. These were demolished to create space for the project. The city also eliminated sections of public streets.
The sloping site presented numerous geotechnical and environmental issues. Among these was the need to terrace the site with retaining walls for each of the individual athletic fields. The project now stands as a dream fulfilled for the community, and the facility is the latest jewel for the city of Newark.