Nine members appointed by the Selectmen, with staff support from Departments of Public Works, Recreation and High School Athletics

Responsibilities 

A. Assemble a comprehensive inventory of current playing fields. The information would be categorized by size and sport, and would include playing condition. For example, any time limits imposed on fields would be duly noted. Committee members also would inspect fields with Grounds Division personnel, recreation staff and School Athletic Director to ascertain condition assessments. Ascertain best practices for periodically shutting playing fields down for regeneration. Determine steps necessary to optimize field utilization and scheduling, as well suggested improvement of any substandard conditions that are identified.

B. Develop comparison between Bedford and other municipalities in the area showing inventory of fields, population served, use policies and levels of financial support (user fees/tax levy).

C. Reconcile inventory with current demand by season, including any special arrangements necessitated by limited inventory - e.g., soccer practices taking place on baseball fields. Demand assessment should differentiate between populations currently served, and potential additional users such Bedford-based club soccer teams and adult programs, including local business and industry.

D. If the analysis concludes that there is a backlog of users, develop a five-year field expansion plan. The plan should not only prioritize inventory expansion, but also address every other possible site for new or reconditioned playing field and provide explanations for rejecting or de-emphasizing those sites.

E. Provide cost estimates for components of the five-year plan including staff and operating budget needs to implement and maintain all fields in the future. Assessment should include potential for Community Preservation funding, based on the latest legislation.

F. Research health and safety issues connected with synthetic turf. 

 Minutes

 ORASC Report to Selectmen November 2012

 Summary of ORASC Report

Appendix 2.2 Field Inventory Bedford High School/Town Center