Modesto to weigh synthetic turf bid for fields

MODESTO -- Young soccer players could be making plays on three synthetic turf fields by spring at Mary Grogan Community Park in northeast Modesto.

The park is being built next to Enochs High School. At its meeting Tuesday, the City Council is expected to approve awarding a $1 million contract to Atlanta-based Empire & Associates for the purchase and installation of the turf.

"We anticipate the synthetic turf could be installed by the end of February, early March, with the kids playing on the three synthetic fields by the end of March," said Loren Holt, the city's acting division manager for park planning and development.

The park will have four grass fields, but Holt said those won't be ready for use until the fall. But he stressed that the timelines for the soccer fields could change because of weather and other factors.

Modesto will spend about $11 million in Village I development fees and other fee reserves for the first phase of the 42-acre park. Phase I includes seven lighted fields for youth soccer leagues and regional tournaments, a 500-space parking lot, a concession stand and restrooms.

Construction started in the spring and should be finished by mid-February.

There is no timeline for Phase II, which will include a softball-baseball field, community center and playground.

Modesto is developing the park's first phase with the Modesto Youth Soccer Association. Holt said the MYSA has committed to raising $150,000 annually over 10 years to replace the turf on the three synthetic fields.

Additionally, the MYSA will raise $175,000 annually, Holt said, for park maintenance.

The City Council meets at 5:30 p.m. in the basement chamber of Tenth Street Place, 1010 10th St.

Bee staff writer Kevin Valine can be reached at kvaline@modbee.com or (209) 578-2316.