WINCHESTER, Va – Winchester Parks and Recreation will break ground on the Preston Field renovation in Jim Barnett Park on Friday, May 26. Beginning at 3:30 p.m. with a brief reception in the Rec Center Social Hall at the War Memorial Building, the ceremonial groundbreaking will occur at 4 p.m. on Preston Field, surrounded by Parks Board members and students from the HIVE after-school program.
Funded through the FY24 City budget and a significant contribution from Blue Ridge United, the renovated field spaces will be ideal for soccer, lacrosse, rugby, tackle and flag football, ultimate frisbee and more. Winchester Parks and Recreation anticipates high use of the field space by summer camps, local schools, and community organizations.
Parks and Recreation Director Chris Konyar is excited about the possibilities the updated fields will provide. “Our community needs this type of recreational space, and we are thrilled with the approval of this project,” he said. “We can’t wait to see the finished product and get groups out on the fields!”
Beginning this summer, the Preston Field space will be transformed into two rectangular fields measuring 120 yards x 55 yards each. The Preston Complex will feature state-of-the-art recreational turf, LED lighting and a new site building that includes restrooms, office space, storage and a press box. With these upgrades, the Preston Complex will be the only outdoor, year-round facility in the area. The fields will be playable all winter, thanks to the LED lighting and all-weather turf.
"Each year, we serve over 1,600 players and have reached maximum capacity for the field inventory currently available," said Blue Ridge United executive director Dustin Butcher. "Our needs aside, we are happy to do our part to improve the recreational experience and facilities for all members of our community."
H&W Construction has been selected as the contractor for this project. The Preston Complex is set to open in fall 2023.