PINETOWN — For years, the Northside Athletic Booster Club has tried to raise money in hopes of upgrading a dated concession stand and press box. On Thursday, with the help of local business, Beaufort County Schools and charitable donors, the high school finally broke ground on a new facility, one that will give visiting press a more elevated view of both baseball and softball games, while giving fans an upgraded concession stand.

“Before I was in the booster club, they started the idea and began fundraising,” said club president David Lewis. “We’ve added to it and have gotten some help from the school board and some area businesses. We’re hoping to get some more to complete the project.”

As it stands, the Panthers faithful are still $10,000 away from their projected goal. The money already raised will fund the building’s shell — foundation, framing, drywall, etc. But while incomplete, the project should make a great addition to the Northside spring sports programs.

The two-story building will have a concession stand on the bottom fitted with two bathrooms, facilities that are currently located further away near the football field. The press box will feature two adjacent windows that will allow visiting reporters to view both the baseball game and softball game at the same time.

“I’m happy for all the hard work that has gone into this from the booster club,” said Northside Principal Charles Clark. “It’s just another piece of evidence about how hard they work enhancing the school and it’s going to be a great addition to our complex. Bathrooms have been a big issue ever since I’ve been here for the elderly and handicapped. We’re just thankful to get this.”

The concession stand and press box will be named in honor of Alvin Jarvis, a devoted Northside supporter, scorekeeper and bus driver who passed away more than two years ago. Jarvis was part of the initial push to provide funding for the new building.

Local contractor Butch Oliver designed the project and construction is set to begin within the next two weeks. The booster club expects the shell to be complete prior to the 2016 spring sports season.

If you’re interested in help fund the construction of the new facility, contact Northside Athletic Booster Club treasurer Cathy Swain by email at ctswain0216@gmail.com.