Soccer Fields In Golden Gate Park Approved To Get Synthetic Turf
SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS) — The San Francisco Board of Supervisors approved installing synthetic turf and lighting at soccer fields near the Beach Chalet in Golden Gate Park, over objections from environmental and wildlife groups.
Soccer fans argued for the change because the city's Recreation and Parks department has to constantly close down the natural grass fields for maintenance.
They argued that upgrading the Beach Chalet soccer field would not only triple availability, but reduce accidents that occur when soccer players trip over gopher holes.
KCBS' Barbara Taylor Reports:
One young soccer player said they like turf better because it's safer and not as "bumpy" as grass.
Groups who appealed the Environmental Impact Report include the Sierra Club and the Audubon Society. They said the west end of Golden Gate Park is supposed to remain natural, meaning no night lights, no artificial turf, and no big parking lots.
The Board of Supervisors denied appealing the Environmental Impact Report with a 10-1 vote.
(Copyright 2012 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
