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Thanks To Stimulus Money, SAISD Schools/Communities Get Health Renovations

Ryan Loyd

Five schools in the San Antonio ISD are being outfitted with opportunities for the community to exercise and get healthy. The latest project, at Harris Middle School, has a three week deadline.

The outdoor community basketball court at Harris must be finished by March 18, which is the end date for federal stimulus money designated to promote health in neighborhoods.

The total cost of the basketball court project is just over $93,000.

"It's going to be a combination of improvements to be able to give the community opportunities to go out and live a healthier lifestyle," said District 5 Councilman David Medina.

There are a variety of projects like walking trails, bike rack installations, and basketball courts taking place here and in areas like Burbank High School, Collins Garden Elementary School and Storm Elementary.

San Antonio ISD's coordinator for health and physical education, Roger Rodriguez, said the city has also pitched in money to make these projects possible.

"All of this was again to promote more physical activity and better nutrition in the schools," said Rodriguez.

The stipulation is that the trails and courts be available for the entire community, even when they're inside school gates.

Harris principal Lourdes Correa said they'll be available after school and on weekends and that safety will be a priority.

"I always have someone here," Correa said. "My custodial staff, my coaches, so it's a very vibrant community. In addition to that my neighbors keep an eye on it and they will be calling if they suspect something."

Ryan Loyd was Texas Public Radio's city beat and political reporter. He left the organization in December, 2014.