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Residents urge more public soccer fields; parks staff say they are exploring options
Summary
Residents told the commission the city lacks sufficient public soccer facilities for youth programs. Parks staff said they are exploring options — including converting tennis courts and using existing city land — but cautioned about parking, access and cost. Staff said they will develop options and cost estimates for commissioners.
Multiple residents and youth-sport organizers told the Pittsburg City Commission the city needs more public soccer fields, and parks staff said they are actively exploring possible locations and designs but that cost, parking and access are constraints.
Emilio Aida, who identified his address and said he manages youth soccer clubs, told the commission his organizations together serve more than 100 young players and need safe, reliable fields. “There’s a big desire and a big need just for safe places to play,” Aida said during the public-input portion of the meeting.
Running through staff responses later in the meeting, Parks operations staff said the city manages roughly 14–17 parks and is examining spots including Lincoln Park, Lakeside Park (where a contractor estimate is pending to convert tennis courts to a smaller soccer footprint) and other city-owned parcels. Staff said turf is unlikely at this stage because the city lacks the budget; they are leaning toward natural grass and noted the need for parking and reasonable access to avoid creating neighborhood traffic impacts.
Parks staff said they are also considering use of existing lighted baseball fields for occasional soccer play when schedules allow, but long-term dedicated fields require more land and capital. Staff said they will meet with community organizers, obtain cost estimates and return with options.
Commissioners who spoke urged staff to continue the work and to come back with cost estimates; one commissioner said a community group has been persistent and that staff are not ignoring the request.
No formal vote or funding was taken; staff indicated they will return to the commission with options and budget estimates in the coming months.
