Biletnikoff Field: When the public can, cannot use Erie School District's sports complex

Can the public access Erie High School’s Biletnikoff Field?

In short, yes. But access is limited.

Signs which read “no trespassing” currently surround the field. Those will soon be removed, Erie School District Assistant Superintendent Neal Brokman said, and a sign listing facility usage rules will be posted before school starts Aug. 26.

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When is Biletnikoff Field open?

Biletnikoff Field’s all-weather track is open to the public outside of school hours and district-sponsored activities such as practices, games or classes. Access is restricted from 8:40 a.m. to 3:40 p.m. on school days and the facility is closed from dusk until dawn.

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“We want the public to utilize it and encourage neighbors to use it,” Brokman said. “There’s been a long-standing tradition of people in that area walking the track and we want to see that continue. We’re going to let our students and student-athletes use it, and I know the public will understand.”

Turf access restricted

Turf use of any kind is by permit only and existing equipment is not for public use.

Those interested can rent the field. A rental calendar, Brokman said, will be posted on the district’s website before school begins.

This is outlined in the district’s Board of Education policy, which requires applications be submitted no less than 15 days before proposed date of use.

School-related groups and/or non-profit organizations which don’t charge admission and contain 50% or more of Erie School District students can rent the facility free of charge. For-profit organizations or non-profits which either charge admission or do not meet the city student threshold must pay a usage fee, as is the case with all district facilities.

Football opener to be played at Veterans Stadium

Erie High sports teams, including football, have utilized the Biletnikoff Field turf since fall practices began Monday. Physical education classes will also use it during the school year.

Football travels to Aliquippa for a scrimmage Saturday and will open its regular season Aug. 23 at Veterans Stadium against Cathedral Prep.

Contact Jeff Uveino at juveino@timesnews.com . Follow him on X, formerly Twitter, @realjuveino .

This article originally appeared on Erie Times-News: Biletnikoff Field: When the public can, cannot use Erie School District's sports complex