Blaine, Minn. (October 31, 2022) – The National Sports Center (NSC) announced that it will begin construction three artificial turf fields that will host soccer, lacrosse, ultimate, and flag football activities to start.
The fields will be located on the south side of 105th Avenue. The fields will replace two existing grass fields and will be lit to allow for extended usage. In addition, to the fields, the NSC will be adding a holding pond on the east side of the super rink to accommodate the field development. There are plans to create an outdoor skating rink on this pond in future winter months.
Nearby trees that were plagued with emerald ash borer disease will be removed during this construction process. A plan to replant future trees across the campus will be unveiled in early 2023.
The construction budget is approximately $3.93 million and will be financed through Blaine Economic Development Authority. Included in the financing is $2.5 million of American Rescue Plan funds to be used for the purposes of economic development.
“As a sports recreation destination, the City of Blaine is glad to partner again with the National Sports Center on improvements that will maintain the NSC’s standing at the top of the amateur sports industry. This enhancement will also play an important role in the future redevelopment of the entire 105th Avenue corridor into a destination for Blaine residents and the millions who visit each year,” said Blaine Mayor Tim Sanders
“The NSC is grateful for the partnership we have with the city of Blaine. Moving forward with this project would not be possible without their assistance. Athletes’ expectations for field playing conditions have changed over the 30 years of the National Sports Center‘s existence. To continue our role as the venue of choice for amateur sports it’s incumbent upon us to update our fields. We are looking ahead by building the foundation for our next 30 years,” said Todd Johnson, Executive Director at the National Sports Center.
Construction will begin in late October. The first stage of construction removing asphalt, sick trees and prepping the new holding pond. The area will need be prepped and prepared for turf and lighting. The NSC will attempt to get as much completed prior to winter, with a goal of opening the fields by May 1, 2023.
The additional artificial turf fields will allow NSC to rest and recover its’ grass fields in a strategic schedule. Lit turf helps extend the outdoor season on the front and back end. Additionally, the new turf fields will help attract more outside events, creating increase recreational traffic and economic impact for Blaine and the surrounding areas. After completion the NSC will have 7 full size turf fields and an additional forty-four grass fields.
About the National Sports Center
The National Sports Center (NSC) is Minnesota’s premier amateur sports destination, hosting nearly 300 events annually, and welcoming over 4 million visitors annually. The NSC generates over $80 million in annual economic impact.
Components of the facility include a 690-acre campus located in Blaine, Minnesota; the eight-sheet NSC Super Rink; a basketball/volleyball court facility, a meeting and convention building; the Victory Links golf course; an indoor Sports Hall with a FieldTurf field; a residence hall; a seasonal dome with FieldTurf fields and 51 playing fields.
The NSC is the training home of Minnesota United FC, a MLS professional soccer club and the US Women’s National Hockey team.