RENO, NV - "The softball fields at the Reno Sports Complex are being rehabilitated!" This according to Suzanna Stigar, Recreation Supervisor of Athletics and Outdoor Recreation for the City of Reno Parks, Recreation & Community Services Department. "This year’s renovations are just the start, we plan continued improvements at the complex each year."

City of Reno Parks Division staff are currently leveling out the lips and installing the sod to regulation standards on all four fields. This work involves removing existing sod and hauling off materials, preparing the soil by tilling in amendments, retrofitting irrigation by relocating heads, trenching, cutting asphalt, adding new valves and valve boxes, wiring to the controller, extending the main lines for all new quick couplers and additional stations for better coverage. In addition, wiring is being installed so the infields can be provided irrigation in the future. The City has contracted with Western Turf to re-sod and to laser level the infields.

Work on the project started in February and crews have been working as weather permits. As of this writing, the irrigation is 90% completed, sod is cut and 50% removed. The next step will be to bring in amendments, till and prep soil for the new sod.

Finally, Western Turf will laser level infields and install the sod. Depending on weather, the City of Reno hopes to complete the project by mid to late March 2006.

The project cost for the turf/infield renovation is approximately $32,000.