Title
Presentation and Discussion of the Artificial Turf Feasibility Study
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The Community Services Department (CSD) has contracted with NV5, a professional consulting, planning, engineering, and management firm with extensive experience in sports facility design and a strong commitment to sustainability, to develop an Artificial Turf Feasibility Study. This feasibility study was initiated in response to requests from local athletic user groups who expressed the need to evaluate artificial turf as a viable option to enhance year-round playability, reduce field closures due to weather, and minimize ongoing maintenance challenges at key County-owned athletic facilities.
This is not a master plan, but rather an exploratory, data-driven analysis intended to assess the feasibility, impacts, and costs associated with potentially installing artificial turf on select fields. The study specifically focuses on fields at North Mesa Sports Complex and Overlook Park, which serve youth leagues, adult recreation programs, and Los Alamos Public Schools (LAPS) athletics.
The primary goals of the Artificial Turf Conceptual Study were to:
• Assess the suitability of synthetic turf on select fields
• Identify optimal field alignments and layouts
• Evaluate the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance needs and site amenities
• Provide conceptual alternatives and cost estimates for design, construction, and maintenance
• Review environmental and sustainability factors
• Ensure alignment with New Mexico Activities Association (NMAA), USA Baseball, and USA Softball regulations
The study also examined lighting, accessibility, drainage, and field configuration enhancements that could improve usability and user experience for a wide range of community members.
CSD, in collaboration with NV5, implemented a comprehensive public engagement process beginning in Fall 2024. The process included:
• Five public meetings (in-person and virtual)
• Two online surveys (open to all residents)
• Ongoing outreach via press releases, social media, flyers, and a project webpage
• A dedicated email address for public comment
• Engagement of targeted community members, including:
o Youth sports leagues and adult recreation groups
o LAPS Athletics
o Neighborhood residents
o Endeavor Working Dog Club
Feedback gathered from this outreach shaped study recommendations and provided valuable insight into the needs and concerns of field users.
The draft study was first presented to the Parks and Recreation Board (PRB) on September 11, 2025. At that time, the PRB voted to delay a recommendation pending review by the Environmental Sustainability Board (ESB) due to questions about environmental impact.
On September 18, 2025, the ESB reviewed the study and submitted comments, which were relayed to the PRB for further consideration. NV5 returned to the PRB on October 9, 2025, to address outstanding concerns and incorporate feedback. At that meeting, the PRB voted to recommend the study to the County Council for review and acceptance.
The Artificial Turf Feasibility Study includes:
• Conceptual designs and renderings
• Field alignment maps
• Lighting and amenity recommendations
• Equipment and maintenance plans
• Construction and operational cost estimates
• Environmental and accessibility considerations
This feasibility study is only the first step in a longer decision-making process. Its purpose is to inform future County discussions and provide a technical foundation for any potential design, funding, or implementation phases. No decisions regarding construction, field conversion, or funding have been made at this time.
Consultants from NV5 will present the study and be available to answer questions. This presentation serves as an introduction to the project only.
Attachments
A- LAC Turf Study Presentation
B- Los Alamos Turf Study Report
C- Appendix A - Interview Notes
D- Appendix B - Community Meetings Presentation
E- Appendix C - Community Meetings Summary Notes
F- Appendix D - Community Survey Complete Results
G- Appendix E - Framework Plans Feedback Survey
H- Appendix F - Site Assessment Matrix
I - Appendix G - Artificial Turf Testing and Data Resources