The Genesis Centre’s two new multipurpose fields (one natural, and one artificial) in northeast Calgary are creating new outdoor recreation opportunities for residents, fosters and encourages youth sports, and presents more opportunities for community members to come together.

In addition to the Genesis Centre itself, the North East Centre of Community Society (NECCS) green space is an active area containing a skatepark, open space, and two natural playfields. The original playfields were difficult to maintain and limited in usage opportunities because of poor field conditions and the absence of artificial lighting. In addition, impermeable clay underlying the site resulted in poor drainage in the Spring and dry conditions in the fall. To address this, the City of Calgary replaced one playfield with artificial turf, rebuilt the second field with a more sustainable natural field, and added new sports field lighting to reduce maintenance and extend playing time into the evenings and the shoulder seasons.

The new artificial turf field is the first of its kind for the city’s northeast quadrant. Artificial turf significantly extends the playing season compared to natural turf, with the ability to be used earlier in the spring and later into the fall. Users can play a variety of field sports, including lacrosse, soccer, football, and field hockey. It is the only artificial turf field in Calgary that is accessible to the public when it isn’t booked. The full scope of the new turf field also included upgraded lighting, seating, and a walking track around the field’s perimeter.

Phase Two of the Genesis Centre Artificial Turf Community Field project will feature supporting amenities adjacent to the fields including an accessibly playground, a community plaza, a sport court, and outdoor fitness stations. Phase Two is scheduled for completion in Summer of 2022.