KEARNEY, Neb. — Construction is now underway on a multi-million dollar upgrade to the outdoor activities complex at Kearney Catholic.

The school hosted a groundbreaking ceremony on Thursday morning and expects leveling and grading work to start immediately. The project is a long time coming for Kearney Catholic administrators like principal Matt Rogers. The existing complex is 60 years old and has only seen minor updates.

“We’ve been looking for to it for years, decades actually. Just to finally see the students out here, all of our supporters out here, being able to celebrate together at this groundbreaking — it’s just been a great morning,” Rogers said.

The project will cost $6.5 million.  It will put in a modern, eight-lane track, a turf field, a new press box, new ADA accessible seating and new lighting.

If completed on schedule, the facility could be ready in time for next football season.