Federal Way Public Schools hosted the Federal Way Memorial Field groundbreaking ceremony Feb. 1, initiating the renovation and demolition of the 71-year-old stadium.

“Today’s groundbreaking is a testament to our community,” said Superintendent Dr. Dani Pfeiffer.

During her speech to the crowd on a chilly Wednesday afternoon, Pfeiffer shared her appreciation for all who made the renovation possible.

“Most importantly, I want to thank the voters. Without the 2017 construction bond, none of this would be possible. It’s because of our voters’ commitment to providing the best facilities possible to our students that we can rebuild Memorial Field,” Pfeiffer said.

Located at Federal Way High School, the stadium is getting some much needed upgrades, for both the athletes and spectators. The new stadium will host up to 4,000 people. It will have improved security, a new track and turf field, “and so much more,” Pfeiffer said.

FWPS School Board President Trudy Davis was hit with a little sadness thinking of the renovation.

“I reflect on the memories made here,” Davis said. “It’s a little sad to think of the start of the demolition. But I know those memories we made will continue, long after the stands come down.”

Jerry Peterson, the district’s athletic director, also spoke at the groundbreaking, where he announced the new stadium is expected to host state playoff and championship games in the future.

“Having a new facility will be awesome,” Peterson said. “What excites me the most is seeing our student athletes have a home field they can be proud of. Federal Way Memorial Field will be a treasure for our district and community.”

In the coming days and weeks, demolition will begin on the old stadium. The hope is the new stadium will be ready to go in the fall 2023 for the football season and girls soccer season.