FS1 Recreation Fields Advisory Subgroup - 11/05/26

The Westwood FS1 Recreation Fields Advisory Subgroup held its kickoff meeting on November 5, 2026, to define its charge and work plan for recommending how recreation fields at the Deerfield site should be configured as part of the FS1 project. The project scope and budget approved at Town Meeting and in the recent election include replacing two softball fields and one multipurpose field. The subgroup will review current and anticipated use, gather input from sports groups, schools and residents, assess design options and deliver a recommendation to the Select Board by late January or early February 2027. The existing project budget is a constraint; possible improvements at other town sites or future recreation projects may be identified separately. No contract awards, bid approvals, spending motions or dollar amounts were reported.

The design team’s schedule anticipates permitting in spring 2027 and bidding ahead of construction planned for late summer or fall 2027; a consultant noted that restored natural-grass fields could require three growing seasons before permanent use. Members discussed gathering participation and field-use data, holding a public listening session, developing an online survey and forming a communications subcommittee. The subgroup also clarified that temporary field alternatives during construction will inform phasing discussions but are not its primary design charge. No procurement decision or vote was taken.