Posted on Jun 28, 2005

Jim ClarkSuperintendent for the Clark Companies

Frank Bailey Field is a busy place on the Union campus. And yet, in 2005, it did not getting a summer vacation. In fact, it received an impressive facelift. The old turf was removed and the new artificial surface installation began in June. By mid-July, the project was completed.


Jim Clark, the superintendent for the Clark Companies in Delhi, New York, is overseeing the project at Union. This project is one of 16 jobs scheduled this year for Clark Companies, and nine new facilities were installed last year. Recent turf installs took place on the Rensselaer, Bucknell, Springfield and Millersville campuses.


The Union women's lacrosse team had the distinction as the final team to compete on the old turf. And what a fitting way for the turf to bid farewell, as the Dutchwomen won the Liberty League Championship on May 8. Soon thereafter, the old turf was torn up and preparations were made for the new turf installation.


On June 15, a truck in Dalton, Georgia was loaded with rolls of the new turf. One day later, it arrived at Union, ready for a new home. Working with expert precision and yet still making an impressive timeline, the Clark Companies had everything ready to go by Monday, July 18. On that day, at 9 a.m., a group of youngsters took to the new turf for the Union Summer Soccer Camp.


Starting September 10, when the Union football team hosts Springfield College at 7 p.m., the new turf will begin to write a chapter of its own memorable moments at Bailey Field.


Check out the progression of this project with our photo gallery.