City Celebrates New Sports Fields in Westgate
Nearly 4.8 acres of turf to support youth sports in Southwest Albuquerque.
Mayor Tim Keller, alongside City Councilor Klarissa Peña and the City of Albuquerque’s Parks and Recreation Department (PRD), announced the opening of new multi-use athletic turf fields next to the Westgate Community Center.
The 4.8 acre expansion brings new athletic opportunities for youth and adults to the City’s Westside. The project includes turf fields, parking, lighting, grass areas, and a one-third mile walking path. These amenities will provide space for year-round sports, after-school activities, and community gatherings.
“This is about delivering for Westside families,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “These fields will support youth leagues, school programs, adult teams, and our Teen Connect initiative. This is another step toward ensuring every Albuquerque neighborhood gets its fair share of investments.”
The project was funded through $885,198 in GO Bond funds, approved by voters and supported through a Cleanup Resolution in 2021. The design was led by landscape architect Lee Gamelsky.
"The completion of these new athletic turf fields at the Westgate Community Center is a major win for our youth and sports community here in the City's Southwest," said City Councilor for District 3, and Council Vice President Klarissa J. Peña. "This significant expansion of multi-use playing areas—nearly five acres—increases athletic opportunities for our youth and additional adult sports activities on the Westside and in the Southwest quadrant of our city. It will also provide fantastic new resources for the community center’s vital before/after school and summer programs. I want to thank the City Parks and Recreation Department for their hard work and dedication to making this project a reality."
The new fields will also play a role in Mayor Keller’s Teen Connect initiative, which partners with schools, libraries, and community centers to provide safe spaces and activities for teens. By expanding recreational opportunities at the Westgate Community Center, the City is helping keep youth active, engaged, and connected.
“These multi-use fields are perfect for soccer, flag football, and many other sports and family activities,” said Parks and Recreation Department Director Dave Simon. “This investment in our community will benefit generations of Burquenos.”