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Commissioners flag turf damage at John D. Morgan Park and get update on phased restroom construction
Summary
Commissioners raised concerns about bare patches and grub damage at John D. Morgan Park’s soccer fields and were told recent turf renovations (including gypsum application) and targeted treatments are under way; staff said restroom construction will be phased to avoid fully closing the parking lot.
Parks and Recreation commissioners said they have seen bare patches and holes at John D. Morgan Park’s soccer fields and discussed causes, recent treatments and how upcoming construction will be phased to limit parking impacts.
At the meeting, commissioners described cratering and dug-up turf used by youth soccer teams and said staff identified grub infestations in some areas. Commissioners also reported seeing raccoon activity that can lift turf and create bare patches.
Staff described work done this fall to restore turf across parks. “Gypsum is mainly added after you fertilize because the gypsum is almost like a fertilizer too … it locks in that moisture,” said Mr. Terramino, parks staff, explaining why treated fields are currently greener and recovering. Staff also said the treatment program has included targeted products intended to control grubs.
Commissioners asked about timing and access during the planned restroom construction at JDM. Staff said the contractor plans to prefabricate the restroom and erect it in phases so that the entire parking lot will not be closed; crews will fence and stage limited sections for construction but aim to preserve most parking capacity. Staff offered to return with a phasing plan update as the date approaches.
Why it matters: JDM is a heavily used city park for youth sports; turf damage affects playability and can produce safety hazards for athletes and families. Commissioners pressed staff for regular updates so community leagues can plan around closures.
Next steps: Staff will provide further schedule and phasing details when available; commissioners noted they may request a project update at the January meeting.
