Loudoun County: Ashburn Sports Complex a Winner?
While I was combing through LoudounExtra.com for my news fix, I came across this article about a $40 million sports complex that a local high school baseball coach is planning to build in Ashburn. The complex would include 12 athletic fields, a swimming facility, a leadership training center, a library and several restaurants. The complex would comprise one large building and two smaller ones, and is slated to be built on Belmont Ridge Rd., near Rte. 7. The complex was the topic of discussion at a Loudoun County Planning Commission public hearing this past Thursday (5/15).
As an Eastern Loudoun resident and parent, I can see both the good and bad of this plan. The good? The complex will satisfy a dire need in the County for playing fields and practice space, both of which there is a shortage of. The fields that do exist are in terrible shape. My daughter plays softball, and it’s been obvious from the scheduling difficulties that there is a need to be filled. I also think that a complex like this would only help property values, since so many homebuyers here are parents or parent wannabes.
But…I can definitely understand why some residents near the intended site are not thrilled. Not only will the complex be a place full of bright lights and big noises, it will also increase traffic on a road that really can’t handle much more. There are plans to widen Belmont Ridge, but I’m not sure where those plans stand now that the state is having so much trouble funding transportation improvements.
Image: An artist’s rendering of the complex (from LoudounExtra.com).
The company seeking to build the complex, Play to Win, was founded by a South Riding resident who is more than willing to address the lighting and noise concerns through use of a fence and a tree shield, and by restricting use of the outdoor lights and PA system. The company already has several leagues and non-profit organizations lined up to use both the fields and some of the office space.
What do you think – is this an idea that’s good for Loudoun? Or will it cause more traffic trouble than its worth?
