Printer-Friendly
Email this Story
Post a Comment (3)
Sports complex spurs worries of noise, traffic
A proposal to build a large sports complex in Ashburn is still awaiting approval from the Board of Supervisors and drawing criticism from residents fearful of the noise and congestion that the facility could bring with it."We never envisioned such a massive sports complex right across the street," said Belmont Country Club resident Howard Miller. "It will diminish our property values."
What's being considered by supervisors is a plan by Leesburg's Play to Win LLC to build a 40-acre facility outfitted with six lighted outdoor fields -- four of which will be artificial -- and three more inside a 225,000-square-foot building.
The complex is slated for the west side of Belmont Ridge Ridge just south of Route 7 and would be available to dozens of local youth sports teams.
Most opposition to the project during a hearing in front of supervisors in Leesburg July 7 came from residents of the nearby golf course community of Belmont Country Club.
Resident Thomas Saavedra said the complex would come at the cost of "the trees and the peace and quiet" that many of his neighbors cherish.
Mary Walker said Belmont Ridge Road is too narrow to accommodate additional cars.
"It's a dangerous road under current circumstances," she said.
Though a final vote is not expected until September, Board Chairman Scott York (I-at large) said he supports the plan.
"I think this is a wonderful application," he said. "This will be good for everyone involved."
If not approved, Play to Win's Chris Bourassa indicated he may take the proposal to Prince William County.
The board sent the proposal to one of its committees for further vetting.
Contact the reporter at jjacks@timespapers.com
The board will chase another business out of the county.
Posted by observer
Report Offensive Content
I hope this passes. This complex, and others like it are so badly needed for the youth (and adults) in this county.
Posted by Waya
Report Offensive Content
If I hadn't been at the hearing myself, I might think from this article that all of the public comments were in opposition to the project, even though they were overwhelmingly in support, including comments from several nearby Belmont residents. I would also not know about Play To Win's plans - at its own expense - to improve traffic safety on Belmont Ridge Road, and to mitigate light, sound, and visual impacts on the surrounding residents. Nor would I be aware that the impact on the Belmont neighbors would be minimal due to the topography of the site, and would actually be greater under the by-right plan, which would move the complex closer to Belmont Ridge Road and require the clearing of an additional 10 acres of trees.
Posted by jdb
Report Offensive Content
You must be logged in to post a comment.