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Park Board proposal to convert Legion Field to multiuse wins council approval to pursue public input and work
Summary
Following public comment, the council approved the Park Board’s recommendation to convert Legion Field’s infield to a dirt multiuse surface, directing staff to cap sprinklers and move forward with implementation planning ahead of a proposed October tournament.
The Ainsworth City Council voted to accept the Park Board’s recommendation to pursue converting Legion Field to a multiuse surface that would allow t‑ball, softball and soccer use.
Park Board members introduced the idea after community members asked the city to make the infield dirt so the facility could host additional tournaments and local play. Speakers raised practical concerns including the presence of underground sprinkler heads, the cost and logistics of sourcing red dirt, and short-term fixes such as portable mounds and capping sprinkler risers so play could occur before larger renovations.
A council member representing the Park Board framed the recommendation as an effort to bring more use to a field that is largely idle, noting that increased use could attract tournaments and local participation. Multiple speakers urged broader public outreach; councilors agreed and authorized staff and the Park Board to publicize the plan, map sprinkler locations, and begin preparatory work (killing grass, capping sprinkler heads, sourcing fill) so the field could be used for an October tournament if feasible.
A motion to approve the Park Board recommendation and begin work passed unanimously. Staff and the Park Board will coordinate on scheduling, materials, and any necessary maintenance or safety precautions.
Next steps: staff to prepare a public-input process, coordinate with the Park Board about timelines and dirt sourcing, map sprinkler locations and schedule work with park maintenance staff.
