City To Open New Athletic Field Near Community Campus on June 9, 2021

Construction of the new Athletic Field located off of Campus Drive is complete, and the field opened on June 9, 2021 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 9:30 am.

The Athletic Field project includes a new 360-foot x 225-foot multi-purpose, synthetic turf playing field which fulfills several of the planning objectives outlined in the City’s 2010 Comprehensive Recreational Needs Study and the 2016 update to that study, along with an innovative regional storm water treatment system, consisting of two types of systems to treat the storm water runoff originating from the West Road industrial area and improve the water quality of drainage to Sagamore Creek.

The City has selected synthetic turf for its playability, safety, and the ability to allow continuous play despite weather conditions. This surface offers extended seasonal use, with less impact from late fall and spring weather that delays natural turf recovery and reduces playing time. For additional safety, the City worked with the project consultants to select a certified PFAS-free artificial turf for the project. The infill for the turf is a natural product made with crushed walnut shells, an environmentally-sound alternative to rubber or plastic infills.

In public comment during the project City Council Work Session in February 2020, many residents spoke passionately about the long-standing need for an athletic field to accommodate the demand for a variety of recreational and organized sports activities.

“As we move out of many COVID-19 restrictions, the opening of the new athletic field in time for summer use is a wonderful thing to celebrate,” said City Manager Karen Conard. “I know this project has been a long time coming, and I am proud to recognize the hard work and dedication of our Department of Public Works, Recreation Department and the Recreation Board to bring it to reality.”

To make reservations or for questions related to the use and availability of the field, please contact Assistant Recreation Director Barry Foley at (603) 427-1547