Recreational Sports to install artificial turf on South Recreation Area Fields
In early 2015, Virginia Tech will begin the South Recreation Field Surface Replacement Project to replace natural grass on the South Recreation Area Fields with artificial turf and section off the original two multi-purpose fields into six separate fields for student use.
The $2.9 million project calls for the installation of a nine-acre artificial turf field covering most of the softball field area which will then be split into six multi-purpose fields and four separate softball fields.
A 10-foot high, vinyl-coated chain link fence will be installed along the perimeter of the field, along with an asphalt walking trail outside of the fence. Fourteen existing light poles will remain in place to illuminate the playing surface.
The project is scheduled to be completed before the fall semester.
The installation of synthetic turf will help Recreational Sports reduce game cancellations due to inclement weather and help meet demand for additional sports and practice areas. Artificial turf fields have a more consistent surface than natural grass, and will reduce the amount of injuries that often occur on an uneven field.
Chris Wise, director of recreational sports, believes that the decision to replace the fields with artificial turf was made with the students’ best interests in mind.
“Our students will have fewer games rained out,” said Wise.” We can play nearly year round without giving the fields time to recover. My hope is that we will never have to turn away another intramural football or soccer team again.”
Part of the Division of Student Affairs, Virginia Tech Recreational Sports seeks to enhance the quality of life for all students, faculty, staff, their families, and the community by providing recreational and fitness opportunities throughout the year. For information on events and programs email Recreational Sports or call 540-231-6856.
