$1.45M Kennewick turf project starts by leveling the playing field

Heavy equipment operators were preparing one of the ball fields at the Southridge Sports and Events Complex in Kennewick this week for installation of a new synthetic infield playing surface.

The dirt being removed will be replaced with a gravel base for the turf.

The change is expected to help extend playing seasons, reduce upkeep and make the fields more versatile.

Kennewick Parks Director Nick Farline previously told the Herald that they’re replacing just the infield, and the outfields will remain grass.

The estimated cost of the entire project is $1.45 million.

Farline told the city council last year that the project will eventually pay for itself thanks to much cheaper upkeep and maintenance costs.

The turf also will allow other uses for the fields, such as youth soccer without risk of damaging it.