Lompoc community weighs in on proposed Riverbend Park soccer field expansion, tell me about this news in (https://www.ksby.com/lompoc-valley/lompoc-community-weighs-in-on-proposed-riverbend-park-soccer-field-expansion)

The news centers on discussions by the Lompoc City Council and local residents regarding the proposed Phase 3 expansion and rehabilitation of soccer fields at Riverbend Park.Background and IssuesRiverbend Park currently has roughly 15 to 16 acres of heavily used soccer fields that city staff described as fatigued, uneven, and plagued by irrigation and gopher issues. Local soccer leagues and families have expressed a strong need for upgraded, reliable fields to support youth and adult sports as well as host regional tournaments.Proposed Concepts and CostsThe city’s Parks and Recreation Department presented four preliminary development concepts for an 11-acre parcel of city-owned agricultural land adjacent to the park:

• Synthetic Turf Complex (approx. $19.9 million): Features all-weather synthetic turf fields with lighting, permanent restrooms, concession areas, bleachers, and paved parking.
• Natural Sod with Amenities (approx. $14.4 million): Natural grass fields with lighting, bleachers, restrooms, and decomposed granite paths.
• Basic Natural Turf (approx. $7.1 million to $7.9 million): Minimal-build options utilizing either basic sod or hydroseeding, omitting lights and permanent structures.

Key Concerns Raised

• Flood Risk: The proposed expansion site sits within the 100-year floodplain of the Santa Ynez River. Officials and community members raised concerns that expensive permanent structures could face FEMA restrictions or damage during major flood events.
• Funding Limitations: The city currently lacks the multi-million-dollar budget required for the larger concepts. City leaders emphasized avoiding heavy taxpayer burdens, suggesting the city “think like a farmer” by utilizing local volunteers, donated equipment, and phased maintenance.

Council Decision and Next StepsThe Lompoc City Council voted unanimously to advance planning with three low-cost initial steps:

1. Terminating the active agricultural lease on the 11-acre property.
2. Performing soil testing and remediation evaluations.
3. Issuing a Request for Interest (RFI) to seek partnerships, sponsorships, equipment donations, and volunteer labor from community groups, local leagues, and private entities.