Montrose builds turf fields and restores wetlands

Montrose School is excited to announce their Campus Renewal Project is fully underway and expected to finish by summer of 2026. Thanks to generous benefactors, the $8.5 million project includes the installation of two new, regulation-sized turf fields and the restoration of the property’s wetlands.

Montrose School worked with the Medfield Conservation Commission for eight months to approve the plans that will ensure the new fields, Vine Brook bridges, and embankments will restore a balanced home for wildlife and public enjoyment. Partnering with the architectural firm Robert Olson and Associates, the school will also install a new system of public pedestrian walkways to connect the pond, Brook Street, new fields, and campus buildings to create a true walking campus. The school will also replace 15,000 square feet of invasive species with native plantings.

“Medfield has been Montrose School’s home since 2007. We have more students who come from Medfield than from any other town. Our aim with this project is to restore and renew our campus wetlands for use by both Montrose and the town of Medfield, as well as to provide an arena for excellent athletic competition with new premier turf fields. We know that Medfield and the Metrowest region have been seeking more turf field options,” said Katie Elrod, Head of School.

The construction work involves removing 1.5 acres of asphalt to make space for the fields and natural landscaping. The new, permeable turf fields, composed of an organic cork fill, will provide environmental and practical benefits to the surrounding ecosystem by addressing draining and flooding issues that previously plagued the property. They will also eliminate irrigation, fertilizers, pesticides, and other maintenance requirements associated with grass fields. The fields will also serve as an alternate Medevac helicopter landing location for the Medfield Fire Department.

New groves of trees and greenery will be added to the southern areas of the property that were previously overtaken by weeds and asphalt. To preserve the privacy of neighboring properties, the project will include the installation of seven-foot-tall privacy fences with vines.

Montrose School welcomes questions and concerns from their neighbors and other residents of Medfield. For more information on the project, contact fieldproject@montroseschool.org.

Montrose School is an independent school for girls in grades 6-12, guided by the teachings of the Catholic Church, located in Medfield, MA. To learn more, visit www.MontroseSchool.org.