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Additional Soccer Fields are Needed <br /> There is a shortage of soccer fields. Soccer is the fastest growing sport in America and <br /> within the study area. The current supply of adult full size fields barely meets the <br /> existing need and over-use is causing turf maintenance problems. Youth fields are in <br /> short supply. Based on local youth association use, comparisons to other Twin City <br /> area suburbs, and growth in participation a minimum of seven additional youth soccer <br /> fields should be constructed. Specific field sizes should be determined by association <br /> and community input, but it appears that two Under-8, three Under-10 and two Under- <br /> 12 fields are needed. <br /> Additional Medium Size Softball and Baseball Fields are Needed. <br /> Based on national standards and comparisons to other local communities, the study <br /> area has a shortage of medium size baseball and softball fields (200'-250' outfield <br /> dimensions). Interest in fast pitch softball and youth baseball is increasing. Three to <br /> five additional medium sized fields are needed. <br /> Studv Area Recommendations <br /> • Based on the analysis of existing facilities and the forecast for future needs the following <br /> actions are recommended: <br /> 1. Construct additional gymnasiums for community and youth sports use. A minimum of two <br /> additional community recreation facilities are recommended, containing at least three full- <br /> size gym courts each. Since the peak demand for gym time occurs from September <br /> through May, location at a sports complex (see 43 below), or at an existing large park will <br /> allow for joint use of parking and a lower development cost. <br /> 2. Evaluate the potential to construct shared-use gym additions at high schools and/or middle <br /> schools. Shared use and funding between school and cities to be modeled after use of <br /> Turtle Lake gyms, with the schools being responsible for scheduling Monday through <br /> Friday during daytime hours and cities are responsible for evenings and weekends. Also, <br /> evaluate the possibility of shared gym construction and use with the private sector and/or <br /> churches. <br /> 3. Acquire land for a sports complex consisting of multiple soccer and softball fields for <br /> tournament use. Due to the large land area required (+50 acres) the Arsenal property in <br /> Arden Hills or the University of Minnesota property in Shoreview are the prime locations <br /> for this type of facility (see Figure 1 for possible locations). The sports complex should <br /> serve all of the cities and should be jointly developed and financed by all the communities in <br /> • the study area. <br /> 17 <br />