Sunnyvale commission adds study on limiting synthetic turf to high‑use athletic fields after broad public comment

The Sunnyvale Parks and Recreation Commission voted to add a study asking staff to evaluate a policy that would restrict artificial (synthetic) turf to high‑use athletic fields.

The motion to add study issue 25‑0694 — titled “a policy to limit synthetic turf use in Sunnyvale parks to high use athletic fields” — passed by roll call, 3‑0, with two commissioners absent. Chair David Kesting made the motion; the record shows Chair Kesting, Vice Chair Mason and Commissioner Vermont voted to approve.

The proposed study would review field usage at city parks, compare the cost and playability of natural grass versus synthetic turf and consider policy or zoning changes to limit synthetic turf to athletic areas, according to the study language read aloud by staff. Park Superintendent Jim Stark noted that “staff comment is a city funded study is underway currently similar to this proposed study,” referring to an existing…