Huntsville Approves $175K Contract to Upgrade Soccer Complex

Plans move forward to convert two more fields to synthetic turf at Merrimack Soccer Complex.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The City of Huntsville has approved a $175,000 engineering design contract with Ivaldi Engineering to evaluate upgrading Fields 1 and 2 at the Merrimack Soccer Complex to synthetic turf. This would mark the third phase of field improvements at the 18-field complex, following previous renovations to Fields 11-18.

Why it matters

The Merrimack Soccer Complex is a key recreational asset for the Huntsville community, hosting youth and adult leagues. Upgrading more fields to synthetic turf will increase playability during wet weather and reduce maintenance costs, allowing the city to maximize usage of the facility.

The details

The design contract will produce a feasibility plan to convert Fields 1 and 2 to synthetic turf. If approved, construction is anticipated to begin in summer 2026 and conclude in early 2027 at an estimated cost of $2.5 million. Synthetic turf fields typically have a 10-year lifespan and can be configured for multiple sports beyond just soccer.

  • The City Council approved the $175,000 engineering design contract on February 26, 2026.
  • Construction is anticipated to begin in summer 2026 and conclude in early 2027.

The players

Ivaldi Engineering

The engineering firm awarded the $175,000 contract to produce a feasibility plan for upgrading Fields 1 and 2 at the Merrimack Soccer Complex to synthetic turf.

Merrimack Soccer Complex

A sports facility in Huntsville, Alabama that currently operates 18 lighted fields, 8 of which are synthetic turf. The complex hosts youth and adult soccer leagues.

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What’s next

If the design plans are approved, construction on upgrading Fields 1 and 2 to synthetic turf is anticipated to begin in summer 2026 and conclude in early 2027.

The takeaway

Huntsville's investment in upgrading more fields at the Merrimack Soccer Complex to synthetic turf will enhance the city's recreational infrastructure, increase playability, and reduce long-term maintenance costs - allowing the facility to better serve the community's youth and adult sports leagues.