No More Walking The Track At UCM’s Walton Stadium

One of the first surprising things I learned when I moved to Warrensburg was that, generally, when Walton Stadium wasn't being used by Mules or Jennies sports teams, the public could come on in and use the track or field to get some exercise. Unfortunately, that ends starting today.

UCM Athletics announced this morning that they're building a surrounding fence around Walton Stadium today, July 29, 2024. The reason for building the fence is to enhance security at the stadium while maintaining the stadium's integrity and securing the stadium to restrict public access. UCM Athletics says the stadium will no longer be available for the general public to use outside of attending UCM and UCM-authorized events at the stadium.

Alex Greenwood, UCM Director of Communications, was quoted in a story on the UCM Athletics website, "We understand that members of our local community occasionally use Walton Stadium for exercise, but because of some challenges we have had over the last few years, it has become necessary to protect Kennedy Field, secure unfettered access for team practices and ensure greater safety for our student-athletes."

As odd as this may seem to long-time Warrensburg residents, colleges and universities generally don't allow public access to the facilities used by their sports teams. They are generally reserved for school athletic teams and other college-related events and activities. Even Warrensburg High School facilities have this policy.

UCM's Greenwood cited several reasons the University decided to secure the facility with a fence. Those include members of the public obstructing practice and occasionally causing situations where student-athletes feel unsafe. Additionally, some folks using the facility don't clean up after themselves, leaving trash behind, including unsanitary items and pet waste.

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Greenwood says the community is still invited to use the Jerry M. Hughes Athletics Center for activities during business hours year-round. Additionally, Warrensburg Parks & Rec always lets guests use the Indoor Track for free and offers a variety of memberships to the community center. You can learn more about that here.