Measure U investments pay off with new Del Paso Heights sports complex
Sacramento (Dec. 2, 2021) A new sports complex that will serve hundreds of families in north Sacramento opened this week on the site of a formerly vacant lot. The four new futsal courts and softball field next to the Robertson Community Center received $1.9 million in Measure U tax dollars, part of an ongoing strategy spearheaded by Mayor Darrell Steinberg to reinvest in Sacramento’s disadvantaged neighborhoods.
The facility represents the first phase of the Del Paso Heights Sports Complex. Mutual Assistance Network is managing the project in partnership with The Center at Sierra Health Foundation, Sacramento Republic FC and the City of Sacramento. Futsal is a fast-paced variety of soccer that is played on a much smaller, hard-surfaced court.
“This new sports complex is one of many neighborhood projects that illustrates how the City of Sacramento has shifted its priorities over the past four and a half years,” Mayor Steinberg said. “Core city services remain a priority, but so does investing to create more opportunity in our communities, particularly those that have been traditionally overlooked.”
As a home for youth sports leagues and regional tournaments, the complex will create jobs and the revenue to fund youth programs. Project organizers estimate a yearly income of $344,000 from field rentals, snack bar and business sponsorships.
Futsal court at the Del Paso Heights Sports Complex - Fustal is a growing sport throughout the world, and is basically played like soccer but on a smaller hard surface like a tennis court and with only five players per side.
“Our neighborhoods and community organizations are ready for the deep investments the City of Sacramento and partners like Sacramento Republic FC are making in Del Paso Heights with this project,” said Danielle Lawrence, executive director of Mutual Assistance Network. “We know it will be a powerful economic and social driver for positive experiences and expanding power in our neighborhood and people.”
Sacramento Republic FC joined the project and will work with the U.S. Soccer Foundation and Black Players for Change to help fund the project as well as provide regular programming and activations on the courts. Other funding partners also include SMUD, Citibank, Pacific Housing Inc., Sierra Health Foundation and Kaiser Permanente.
The new fields will host regional games and tournaments, bringing revenue to the facility and into the community through local business opportunities such as related shops and restaurants. Local teams and young people will enjoy free access during the week.
