The Columbia Parks & Recreation Department announces $1.8 million in improvements to Owen’s Field athletic facilities

The Columbia Parks and Recreation Department announced that Columbia City Council has approved funding for $1.8 million dollars in improvements and upgrades for Owen’s Field Park designated to renovate the park’s soccer fields and amenities. The work will be coordinated in two phases, including immediate improvements scheduled for completion before the 2023 fall soccer season, and long term plans to ensure the park’s continued vitality.

Columbia District 3 Councilman Will Brennan and Parks and Recreation representatives will meet this summer with members of the community and Owens Field athletic user groups to share schematic designs, project details, and project timelines.

“We are proud to be supporting Owens Field and look forward to how these improvements will help the surrounding community,” said Mayor Daniel Rickenmann. With this funding, we can expand the activities at Owens Field and add more ways for residents of our city to get outdoors. I can’t wait to get out to Owens Field and have fun with our community.”

The final project will include removing existing grass, grading for better surface drainage, applying soil amendments for turf health and heavy field use, a new irrigation system, fine grading for safe playing surface, and sodding with Bermuda grass.

“I am very appreciative of this Council and Mayor Rickenmann for recognizing the much needed investment into upgrading our sports fields at Owens Field Park. They are a destination for people of all ages, from all over our City and the Midlands,” said Councilman Brennan. Proper irrigation, grading and sod, with a commitment to continued maintenance, will make the playing experience more enjoyable and safer for all.”

In addition, long term project plans include construction of walking paths, parking and vehicle access improvement, site amenities, restrooms, lighting, and picnic shelters. The City of Columbia Parks and Recreation Department will oversee maintenance of the new fields, as well as strategic coordination for operations and management with all user groups, which will be crucial for the longevity of the revitalized fields.

“We are grateful for the conversations with the organizations that heavily utilize Owen’s Fields athletic facilities, as well as the members of the park’s surrounding communities,” said Assistant City Manager Henry Simons. “Their insights and suggestions have guided us in determining the needed improvements for Owen’s Field, and how to best use the funding to meet the needs of everyone who enjoys this multi-purpose park.”