During the recent Select Board meeting in Concord, Massachusetts, significant discussions centered around the future of the town's artificial turf field, which is located on school district property. The town has committed up to $100,000 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding to conduct a feasibility study aimed at exploring various options for the field's replacement or renovation. This initiative reflects the growing interest from multiple community groups that utilize the field.

The Select Board emphasized the importance of ensuring that any project undertaken meets the needs of all users. The town has a longstanding agreement with the school district to maintain the field but is not obligated to fund its replacement. The Friends of C.C. Fields, a local group, has set aside funds specifically for this purpose, indicating a collaborative effort to address the field's future.

Key discussions highlighted the need for a comprehensive feasibility study to evaluate alternatives, including the potential replacement of the existing artificial turf with either new turf options or natural grass. Board members expressed concerns regarding the environmental and health impacts of artificial turf, particularly given the community's past experiences with turf fields that required replacement sooner than expected.

The Select Board plans to schedule a detailed discussion on this topic during their first meeting in December, where they will outline the various considerations and seek community feedback. This meeting aims to bring transparency to the process and ensure that all voices are heard as the town navigates this complex issue.

Overall, the discussions reflect a proactive approach to addressing community needs while balancing the interests of various stakeholders involved in the use and maintenance of the field. The outcome of the feasibility study and subsequent decisions will likely have lasting implications for recreational facilities in Concord.