Bellevue High School to Get Major Facilities Upgrade

In Bellevue, a significant change is on the horizon for local sports as the Bellevue Independent Schools Board members have approved an overall project worth $8.4 million to upgrade Leo Gilligan Field and Ben Flora Gymnasium. During their monthly meeting on Wednesday night, board members agreed to move forward with acquiring bonds to fund the renovations, aiming for completion by August 2025.

One of the most notable upgrades will be the installation of synthesized turf at Leo Gilligan Field, carried out by the Motz Group based out of Ohio. The remaining improvements, which will focus on both athletic sites, will be managed by Perkins Carmack Construction from Ohio.

The plans for the 88-year-old stadium include installing a rubberized track, upgrading tennis courts, and building a brand-new concession stand with restrooms. Meanwhile, the 52-year-old gym will undergo renovations to its locker rooms, lobby, and public restrooms.

Superintendent Misty Middleton commented on the decision, stating, “It’s way overdue. Ever since I’ve been here, one of the things I’ve heard consistently is, why can’t we have nicer facilities?” She also commended the board for taking the necessary steps to secure funds for the much-needed renovations.

Bellevue football teams have called Leo Gilligan Field their home since 1936, while the first boys’ basketball game at Ben Flora Gymnasium was held in January of 1972. The athletic venues are located near I-471, just a few blocks from the high school itself.

“This has been a long time coming,” shared Bellevue athletic director Jim Hicks. “I mean, the track has been in bad shape for a long time, and we’re the last grass field in Northern Kentucky. The view on Friday nights looking up into the Cincinnati skyline from a brand-new stadium is going to be great. We’re excited about it.”

Currently, Bellevue and its longtime rival Dayton are the only local football teams playing on natural grass this season. Meanwhile, Dayton has started its own construction project for a new synthetic turf field and field house, expected to be finished by the beginning of the 2025 football season.