Renovations Underway At St. James Soccer Park

ST. JAMES, NY — Moriches Park Soccer Complex in St. James could be ready for play in time for spring leagues, according to the Town of Smithtown.

The town's parks department began stripping the artificial turf at the complex last week, and the project is expected to be completed sometime in April. The soccer fields' replacement was approved as part of the 2021 Capital Budget.

"We’re determined to give residents; especially our youth, something to look forward to in time for warmer weather," Supervisor Edward Wehrheim stated. "The winter has been colder than in previous years, with folks shuttered indoors, and fearful of the pandemic… Which is why the Town is moving at warp speed to complete capital projects at our parks, recreational spaces, and beaches. Spring will be a season of new hope for our quaint community this year."

The Smithtown Parks Department will complete the stripping of existing turf followed by grading the fields. Afterward, Laser Industries will replace the infill and lay new artificial turf. The project is the first of several park improvements scheduled to be completed this year, according to the town.

The town also plans to renovate the Landing Country Club's pool, restrooms and constructing a new concession area.

Additonally, makeovers to East Hills and Laurel Drive parks, along with the final touches to Flynn Memorial Ballpark, with the construction of a new playground and parking lot, are in the works.

By the end of the current fiscal year, the Town of Smithtown says it will have completed the restoration process of more than 75 percent of the parks system in under a four-year period.