Walnut Creek OKs rehabilitation of Heather Farm ball fields; soccer club pledges $1.5 million

The Walnut Creek City Council approved construction work at Heather Farm Park that will reconstruct Ball Fields 1 and 2 and install all-weather turf and lighting, a project supported by a private fundraising commitment from the Walnut Creek Soccer Club.

Steve Chapel, general manager of the Walnut Creek Soccer Club, told the council the club represents about 3,000 children (and their families) and had committed roughly $1,500,000 to expand program offerings and allow play in wetter weather. The club said the upgrades would reduce weather-related cancellations.

Project schedule and materials: Project manager Michael Hawthorne told the council the work is slated to begin early spring 2025 with completion by late 2025 so the club can use the fields in 2025. Fields 1 and 2 will be under reconstruction for about six to seven months during that period. Hawthorne said staff will coordinate scheduling with the club during construction.

Turf and environmental details: Council asked about turf components. Staff said the synthetic turf system includes a surface layer and an "infill" material; the chosen product uses a manufacturer'branded organic infill (described in the staff discussion as a coconut-based "geofill" mixed with sand) and does not use recycled rubber tires. Shaw (the vendor referenced) reported a life expectancy of about 10—14 years with good maintenance and operates a take-back/recycling program to reclaim materials at end of life.

Council action: Councilmember Silva moved to approve item 2L and the motion passed unanimously. Council members expressed appreciation for the club's partnership and emphasized the need to plan for temporary field closures during reconstruction.

What's next: Staff will proceed to finalize construction documents and the approved contract, coordinate schedules with the soccer club, and prepare for construction in spring 2025.