Legacy Stadium & Mike Johnston Field dedicated in Katy

KATY, Texas (FOX 26) - It's not everyday a new high school football stadium is built, but in Katy, Texas a new one has just opened up.

"It was well planned, well designed by the architects and construction folks who did a great job", says Mike Johnston.

It's called Legacy Stadium and the field is named after former Katy High School football coach Mike Johnston. Johnston led the team to multiple state championships.

"There's no doubt it's a blessing, is a great honor and I'm above humbled", says Johnston.

Voters approved the project back in 2014 as a part of a zero tax increase bond. DISTRICT officials say it seats 12,000 people and that it was NEED because 3,000 students join KATY ISD every year.

The stadium and surrounding facilities cost about $72 million dollars in total.

"Because of some construction costs and some additional things that we were able to do, we were able to enhance the facility, we may be the most expensive stadium for a little bit but another one will come on board and you will be visiting with them soon", says superintendent Dr. Lance Hindt.

Fox 26 News got a look inside before Thursday night's dedication ceremony, where a number of programs will use the space.

"You will see the dance teams, the cheer leaders, he varsity football teams coming in, you will see the boys and girls soccer rams coming in, there are so many groups", says executive director of athletics Debbie Decker.

"I think it's a beautiful stadium, I like the sunken aspect of it instead of having to walk up the big ramps", says Melani Jensen who's son plays in the Taylor High School marching band.

"Oh I love it, it's beautiful", says Stephanie Graves who's son goes to Katy High School.

Games start at the end of August. Students, parents, faculty and former staff all ready for the new season under the infamous Friday night lights.

"Games start in just a few weeks and I can just tell people are going to love it", says Johnston.