Council approves $323,500 design contract for North Recreational Complex; council asks to evaluate turf options
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Summary
The council approved Task Order No. 14 with East Group for $323,500 in design services for the 128-acre North Recreational Complex, and council members asked staff to evaluate natural grass versus artificial turf during the design phase because of health and heat concerns.
Greenville City Council on Nov. 10 authorized Task Order No. 14 with East Group for $323,500 to design improvements at the North Recreational Complex, including drainage repairs, turf replacement, stormwater infrastructure and water services.
Executive Director Don Octagon said the complex is 128 acres and the design work focuses on two fields, drainage, turf replacement and related infrastructure. He said the city hopes to bid construction in April 2026 and complete the project so games can begin in January 2027.
During questions, Council member Marion Blackburn raised concerns about artificial turf and its possible health and heat-related effects on young players, listing chemicals and endocrine-disrupting materials as reasons to prefer natural grass if possible. Octagon said the design team will evaluate options and bring recommendations to council, and staff confirmed fiscal considerations will be part of the determination.
Council approved the task order by voice vote, recorded as passing 6-0. Funding for the design phase was described as included in the sports complex development account approved by council in September.