Commission discusses sports‑field lighting and upgrades at Fort Nugent Park; staff to convene athletic subcommittee

At the May 12 Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission meeting, staff presented preliminary lighting footprints and cost estimates for Fort Nugent Park's football and baseball/softball fields and said the work is at an early planning stage with consultants available for more detailed review.

Brian, Parks staff, noted the city has not yet budgeted the work and said a lighting consultant (Tech Line LED Sports Lighting) had prepared site studies. Staff proposed discussing technical details in the Athletic Facilities subcommittee and inviting Councilor Eric Marshall to participate. "Let's go over the lighting plans, and we'll have Tech Line LED Sports lighting in on a subcommittee meeting with athletic facilities," Brian said.

Commissioners emphasized equity across user groups and seasons. One commissioner said Fort Nugent should be a priority because it is the city site with established field use and permanent expectations; lighting could immediately benefit football and extend playable hours for other sports. Concerns included whether improvements should be balanced between football, baseball and softball fields and how investments would interact with possible future decisions about a regional sports complex or a recreation center. Staff noted some grant options remain uncertain and cautioned about investing heavily on school district fields without clear long‑term control or agreements.

No formal funding decision was made. Staff will hold a subcommittee meeting with the consultant and council representation to refine cost estimates, discuss staging and return recommendations to the full commission.