Lewis-Clark State College is requesting authorization from the Idaho State Board of Education to begin planning a major renovation of its athletic facilities. The college seeks approval for the design phase of a project that would replace the natural grass at Harris Field with artificial turf.
The board will consider the request during its Thursday session at the Williams Conference Center in Lewiston. LCSC is asking for $160,000 to fund the initial planning and design work. The total estimated cost for the turf installation is $2.6 million. College officials note that the synthetic surface “potentially creates long-term cost savings.”
The proposal aims to address scheduling challenges associated with natural grass fields. Artificial turf allows for increased field availability, reduces disruptions caused by weather conditions, and decreases routine maintenance requirements. A second vote by the state board will be required before construction can begin.
NAIA World Series Hosting
The facility upgrade coincides with LCSC’s continued role as a premier collegiate sports venue. The college recently extended its contract to host the Avista NAIA World Series through at least 2033. Other institutions in the region have already adopted similar surfaces; Bailey-Brayton Field at Washington State University features an artificial turf playing surface.
University of Idaho Campus Expansion
The state board agenda also includes a separate request from the University of Idaho. UI is seeking approval for the planning and design phase of a new Teaching and Learning Center at its McCall Field Campus. The university has requested $580,000 for this initial stage.
The proposed center spans 5,200 square feet. Construction of the facility is expected to cost approximately $5 million, which will require separate authorization from the board in the future.
Institutional Leadership and Naming
Board members will also review contract extensions for top administrators at two state institutions. The agenda includes proposed extensions for LCSC President Cynthia Pemberton and Idaho State University President Robert Wagner. Both contracts would run through June 2028.
Additionally, the board will address LCSC’s ongoing effort to change its name to Lewis-Clark State University. The Idaho Legislature did not act on the name change during the 2026 session, leaving the matter for further consideration by the education board.
Meeting Details
The Idaho State Board of Education meetings are open to the public. Sessions begin at 1 p.m. on Wednesday and 9 a.m. on Thursday. The proceedings will be livestreamed online for remote viewing.