Makeover of Marysville athletic complex will mean less mud

The city will convert one soccer field to synthetic turf as part of a $1.7 million upgrade of Strawberry Fields.

MARYSVILLE — The Strawberry Fields Athletic Complex is getting an upgrade.

A $1.7 million project will include conversion of one of three soccer fields to synthetic turf, new bleachers and playground equipment, and trail improvements to the off-leash dog park.

The city of Marysville opened the 72-acre sports facility in 2005. The turf upgrade will extend the playing seasons and allow teams to play in wet weather, according to a news release.

“The turf will allow people to play more often because the turf won’t get muddy,” said Connie Mennie, city of Marysville spokesperson.

She said the complex is one of the only large recreational facilities in north Snohomish County, and teams come from all over to play.

The Snohomish County Council unanimously voted last month to kick in $1 million for the synthetic turf conversion at Strawberry Fields.

“Park improvements like this are critical to supporting youth sports programs,” County Council member Nate Nehring said in the news release.

Amazon has donated $140,000 to the project as it builds a fulfillment center nearby, in adjoining Arlington.

The city of Marysville will pay for the remainder of the project.

Mennie said the city cannot convert all three soccer fields to synthetic turf at once due to the high cost.

The city is starting design and development for the project, and hopes to begin construction this year. Due to the limited number of synthetic turf contractors, the project may get pushed to next year, Mennie said.

“If we get lucky, it could be done this year,” she said.

Jacqueline Allison: 425-339-3434; jacqueline.allison@heraldnet.com. Twitter: @jacq_allison.