Fight Over Soccer Fields Looms in Virginia
NBCWashington.com
A couple of soccer fields planned for Alexandria, Va., are too close for their neighbors' comfort.
A $3 billion development at the north end of Potomac Yard will include millions of square feet of retail, residential and commercial space as well as the soccer fields, but when Alexandria workers put up stakes and ropes in the Del Ray neighborhood, some residents realized just how close the project is.
"The neighborhood knew about the development and that they would be putting soccer fields in back here, but we had no idea how close to our property it would be coming," said resident Jonathan Underly.
Neighbors said they were excited about the two large, lighted soccer fields that were slated to be built along Route 1 but could never find the developer's plans online. Now they are worried their tree lined buffer could disappear.
Alexandria Parks and Recreation officials will meet with neighbors Monday night to answer questions about the development and the soccer fields. They said about eight trees will have to come down, but replacements will be planted. They said the development has been in the works for years.
"The process for these park pieces have been going on since 2005, and there's been roughly 22 public meetings and hearings, most with citizen comment," said James Spengler, of Parks and Rec.
But neighbors said this is the first time they are getting details.
Posted Monday, Jun 28, 2010 - 8:45 PM EST
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