SAN JOSE, Calif. – The City of San Jose, San Jose Earthquakes and the Guadalupe River Park Conservancy are exploring a new partnership to develop a seven-field soccer project at the Guadalupe Gardens, which would help meet the community’s growing demand for recreational amenities and enhance the Downtown San Jose park.
While specific details of the project are still being worked out, the partners are currently envisioning a 44-acre project that would include:
- Four lighted artificial turf soccer fields dedicated for public use;
- Three soccer fields and an adjacent building that would be used for the Earthquakes’ Soccer Academy and available for certain community use and access;
- Enhancements to seven acres of public open space, including new trails, benches, trees and improved connectivity between the Heritage Rose Garden and Orchard and the rest of the park.
- Parking and concessions; and
- Five additional acres of open space that could also be used for overflow parking on designated days to help ease parking and traffic in the surrounding area when there are major events.
“This proposal could help expand the number of much-needed fields for soccer-loving kids in our community, while also advancing our vision of the Guadalupe River Park as a regional attraction that serves residents throughout our community,” said San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo. “I would like to thank City staff for their work on this effort, the Guadalupe River Park Conservancy for their support and input, and the Earthquakes for their willingness to contribute millions of dollars to create a destination soccer complex.”
Preliminary estimates put the cost of the potential project at $32-$37 million. The City would allocate $12 million from a voter-approved parks bond that included funds for a new soccer complex. The Earthquakes have proposed covering the balance of the costs related to the public amenities and the entire cost of the project related to its Soccer Academy – a potential $20+ million investment.
“We are proud to partner with the City of San Jose and the Guadalupe River Park Conservancy to explore this transformative project,” said Earthquakes President Dave Kaval. “I would like to thank the City and the leaders of the Guadalupe River Park Conservancy for their vision and tremendous efforts on this project. We think that the project is a big boost for soccer in the area and it will also bring more attention and visitors to the beautiful Guadalupe River Park.”
“As proud community stewards of Guadalupe River Park & Gardens, Guadalupe River Park Conservancy welcomes an opportunity to revisit the 2002 FAA-approved master plan to explore further development and activation opportunities,” said Leslee Hamilton, Executive Director of the Guadalupe River Park Conservancy. “As San Jose’s population continues to grow, Guadalupe River Park & Garden will play an increasing role in the city’s quality of life. We look forward to participating in and adding value to this evaluation process.”
The City and its partners will be continuing discussions over project terms, details and related issues, and hope to develop a non-binding memorandum of understanding for the City Council’s consideration next month.
