The installation of new LED field lights at Newton’s H.A. Lynn Stadium could impact the start time for the annual Gatorade football scrimmage. The Newton School Board approved the $632,443 project with Van Maanen Electric in Newton back in June. But this week, the school district’s Maintenance and Grounds Supervisor, Jack Suttek, told board members the project is scheduled to be completed the same day as the scrimmage. That’s next Friday, August 23rd.

“We are coming right down to the wire. But the way everything is falling into place with the electrical components coming in, we are guaranteed to be ready for our first varsity home game.”

That first home game is September 6th against Dallas Center Grimes. With the uncertainty over the lights, Newton Athletics and Activities Director Ryan Rump says the start times for the 9th grade, Junior Varsity, Varsity scrimmages are to be determined. H.A. Lynn Stadium was built in 1941, and it’s the original lights that are being replaced. Last season, after the Pella game, electrical equipment for one of the light towers on the home side of the field caused a fire. It was extinguished with no other major damage.