Hammond Field Cost Overrun Unknown

The cost of constructing a new sports field at Francis C. Hammond Middle School is expected to be much higher than the original estimate of $2 million, a Seminary Hill Association board member said Thursday night.

“We don’t know what the final number’s going to be, but it will be very significant," board member Frank Putzu told association members.

Local government officials told Putzu they would not release the final cost until after the field’s completion, he said.

The new artificial turf field and redesigned track were supposed to be completed by September but were delayed in large part due to the need to redesign the stormwater management system. A dedication ceremony is scheduled for Dec. 21.

In October, Monika Szczepaniec with the Alexandria City Public Schools Planning, Design and Construction Office told Patch the project would cost about $1.9 million.

The project is being funded through the city as part of the school system's Capital Improvement Program. The school is located at 4646 Seminary Road.