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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 res...
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