Volunteer Park blossoming in Spirit Lake
JAKE PARRISH/Press Dirt is moved by heavy machinery on April 11 marking the initial stages of the renovation of Volunteer Park in Spirit Lake.
Rendering courtesy of the city of Spirit Lake An adult soccer field, a youth soccer field and an adult softball field are being added to Volunteer Park in Spirit Lake. The city also recently purchased 2 acres for parking.
SPIRIT LAKE — Volunteer Park is blossoming in Spirit Lake.
A full-size adult soccer field, an adult softball field and a youth soccer field are being added to the park on 4.5 acres at the site at 10th and Jefferson.
"We hope to have grass growing before fall," Spirit Lake Mayor Todd Clary said. "That will allow soccer to be played."
The first phase, which included earthwork to prepare the site for sports fields, has been completed. It was performed by New Vista Development of Pinehurst for $68,000.
The focus is now on putting in conduit for future light systems, applying topsoil and sprinkler systems.
"It's been fun working on a project like this for the community," Clary said.
The site has had a baseball field that was called Jefferson Field before the expansion.
"It will be a nice facility when it's done and big enough for outdoor volleyball tournaments and soccer tournaments," Clary said.
The city recently acquired an additional 2 acres for parking. That land was purchased for $42,500 and was paid for with impact fees.
Clary said the park is being funded with a combination of urban renewal funds and impact fees. Some community groups and organizations are chipping in volunteer labor. Little League, for example, is contributing to the fences.
The site will require a main line water extension at 12th and Madison to allow for adequate water flow for the sprinklers and fire hydrants.
Clary said youth and adult sports teams have had to play on school fields. Volunteer Park should pave the way for tournaments to be held in Spirit Lake to generate revenue for the city and businesses.
"The soccer and adult softball teams have had to play on anything they could find," Clary said. "With our Parks and Recreation Department growing, we need multiple fields."