City of Pueblo, Pueblo Urban Renewal Authority, Pueblo Central High School Foundation and Pueblo ...

PUEBLO-On Monday, November 25, 2024, Pueblo City Council approved $250,000 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding to be allocated toward a new, turf athletic practice field designated primarily for soccer. The total cost of the project is estimated to be $897,500 which will receive additional funding from Pueblo Urban Renewal Authority (PURA), Pueblo Central High School Foundation and Pueblo School District 60.

"We are excited to partner with Pueblo School District 60, Central High School Foundation and with PURA to build a brand-new, turf soccer field near Central High School," said Mayor of Pueblo Heather Graham. "This is a great use of ARPA funding to serve the youth in our community and to fill a need in an area of town which will greatly utilize a turf athletic field."

The field will be located at the corner of East Grant Avenue and Madison Avenue near Central High School, the property is currently owned by Pueblo School District 60. PURA has agreed to match the City of Pueblo's $250,000 contribution for the project. The field will primarily be used for Pueblo School District 60 athletic use but will be available for public use upon reservation.

"It's very rewarding to see the collaboration of partners to provide a greatly needed facility for our community," said Pueblo Urban Renewal Authority Executive Director Jerry Pacheco. "This project serves the needs of the greater neighborhood area and PURA is happy to help make a difference."

Pueblo School District 60 will be the fiscal agent and will oversee the construction of the new turf field. The Pueblo Central High School Foundation has agreed to contribute $47,500 toward the project and Pueblo School District 60 has agreed to pay the balance of the project, not to exceed $350,000.

"We appreciate the City's partnership, along with the Pueblo Urban Renewal Authority and the Pueblo Central High School Foundation. This project will benefit our students, families and our community for years to come," said Superintendent of Pueblo School District 60 Barbara Kimzey, Ed. D.

The City of Pueblo, PURA, Pueblo Central High School Foundation and Pueblo School District 60 have agreed on a memorandum of understanding to fulfill the project needs of the new turf soccer field. Construction is anticipated to begin in Spring of 2025. Once constructed, Pueblo School District 60 will be responsible for all maintenance, upkeep and repair of the practice field.