The New Richmond High School (NRHS) is in the midst of a significant face lift to Tiger Stadium that has been in the works since the need was identified in 2007. The project picked up steam after 2015-18 strategic plan surveys communicated the community’s desire to complete the project. With continued community growth, the school district has also grown, and the former facilities were fast becoming too small to accommodate the fans, not to mention fans with varying physical abilities. When the WIAA announced plans a few years ago for a realigned football-only conference which moved New Richmond to join larger communities of Hudson, Chippewa Falls, and Menomonie starting in the fall 2020 season the news helped the project gain momentum.
The first phase of the project included installing lighting in 2017. Phase two included field turf and was completed in the fall of 2019. Currently, phase three of the five-phase project is underway and nearing completion. The current project includes gates, ticket booths, concession stands, bathrooms, brick work, electrical, bleachers to seat 2300, press box, stairs, and ramp. Part of the project included a roof that was installed by NRHS students and Derrick Building Solutions.
“While we build projects in a fairly broad geographic area, the local hometown projects here in New Richmond bring a little extra sense of pride for our team. Our staff includes some New Richmond High School and NRHS Tigers Football alumni, and that legacy makes it even more rewarding to be part of this exceptional community project,” said Chad Derrick, Project Manager on this job.
When asked about the project, Patrick Olson, District Administrator, said, “Our experience with Derrick Building solutions has been tremendous. We have appreciated their collaboration, communication, and follow through. To have a local contractor that shows the same sense of pride as we do in the final product creates a meaningful relationship. It has been a true pleasure to work with the entire group at Derrick Building Solutions.”
Mr. Olson also added, “The last four months have been a difficult time for everyone and this project has been a bright spot for the community of New Richmond. We appreciate the support of the community to build a stadium that can be utilized by all.”
The total project is a joint effort between the School District and the community. A community capital campaign is underway to raise the remaining funds which will enable the future phase 4 and 5 to move forward. Those phases are planned to include a scoreboard and team rooms which will also serve as storm shelters. If you are interested in donating to the project, click here for giving opportunities.