Cerritos : Sports Complex Discussed

The city and the ABC Unified School District are negotiating to build a sports complex on 18.5 acres of district property next to Whitney High School.

Of the district’s four high schools, Whitney is the only one without a gymnasium and shower facilities. In recent years Whitney students and parents have complained about the lack of a multipurpose facility on campus for athletic, drama or music events. Students often are bused to other high schools for physical education classes. Without a gym, school dances and other large events are also a problem at Whitney.

District officials have approached the city about using redevelopment funds to build a $2-million gym on the vacant site just north of the Whitney campus. In exchange, the district would either sell or lease to the city a large chunk of the property for a sports complex with lighted softball and soccer fields, a snack bar, portable bleachers, restrooms and storage facilities.

Talks between representatives of the city and school district began recently. Apparently there is no deadline for reaching an agreement, which ultimately must approved by the City Council and the Board of Trustees.