In the June 2025 capital bond vote, Hastings-on-Hudson voters approved an $8.1 million proposal for Burke Estate that included two synthetic turf fields alongside ADA accessibility upgrades, additional parking, and structural improvement. The proposition narrowly passed, with 1,440 in favor and 1,369 opposed. Supporters of the turf pointed to fewer weather-related cancellations and more reliable playing conditions for student-athletes. Some disadvantages of grass fields include inconsistent ball behavior and slipping and tripping, which leads to increased injury risk. Overall, turf fields offer better durability, more consistent playability in all weather conditions, more consistent ball behavior, and lower maintenance.
Others, however, have focused on environmental concerns tied to the materials being used. Before the vote, the school board said the fields would meet several environmental standards, including being lead-free and PFAS-free, being recyclable or repurposable, and free of rubber. Those promises are now at the center of growing debate in the community.
According to documentation provided by the district’s contractor, FieldTurf, the proposed turf products contain no intentionally added per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Opponents of the turf claim the district is breaking promises that the fields would be free of PFAS. PFAS, often called “forever chemicals,” are used in consumer and industrial products because they repel water and grease and resist heat. They are notorious for persisting in the environment and exposure can lead to long-term accumulation in the body.
Hastings residents are concerned about the environmental consequences and long-term health effects. Some opponents appear motivated primarily by PFAS and environmental concerns, while others are skeptical of the district’s procurement process.
On May 4, Hastings residents Rachel Thornton, Ariella Gastel, and Aarthi Muthukrishnan filed a petition with the New York State Education Department to stop the turf from being installed and advocate for independent testing of the turf materials. The petitioners also requested that the New York State Commissioner of Education cancel the contract and only consider offers that comply with the district’s stated PFAS-free blueprint. The argument centered on whether the district adhered to the commitments it made to voters and to environmental safety expectations.
In a community statement released May 8, the district said they are confident the turf fully complies with regulations. They stressed that the board tried to balance athletic necessities, environmental concerns, and restoration of existing grass fields. The administration also argues that voters already approved the bond project democratically. District messaging repeatedly stresses transparency and promises additional updates as construction proceeds.
In an email to the community on May 22nd, the district’s Superintendent William McKersie wrote that the petitioners and the district’s counsel were informed that no stay order would be issued by the New York State Commissioner of Education. Because there is nothing preventing the contract from proceeding, McKersie said construction at the Burke Estate would begin as scheduled.
Through Monday, June 8, the Burke Estate remained partially open to walkers as construction began. On June 9 and 10, the site was fully closed while fencing was installed. Beginning June 11, walkers were again able to use designated crossing areas outside the construction fencing, which is expected to remain in place through much of the construction period from June to December. All individuals are required to stay out of fenced construction zones for safety, with any changes to access announced in advance.