After Decade-Long Struggle, San Carlos Reveals Synthetic Turf on Highland Park

San Carlos revealed Highland Park’s new synthetic turf Saturday morning, the end result of a decade-long lawsuit with Save San Carlos Parks and more than $85,000 in legal fees.

“It was worth it,” said Mayor Omar Ahmad. “When you look the kids here, I mean, where was this when I was growing up?” He paused and looked around at the dozens of little leaguers who came out to witness the grand opening of their new field.  “Yes, it was worth it.”

The turf, made of coconut husk, cork and sand, has been installed to increase field usability.

“We were at 300 percent capacity,” said Assistant City manager Brian Moura who was the director of the Parks & Recreation Committee back in 2000 when the process to install turf began.

Moura said the city brought in a consultant who briefly recommended turf as a viable option.

The project, however, was halted for more than a decade by Save San Carlos Parks, a community group objecting to fake grass and demanding the project be abandoned.

But a decision back in September by San Mateo Superior Court Judge Marie Weiner ended the squabble, giving the city a green light to proceed.

“It’s great to see all of the effort of all the city council’s, past and present, has paid off,” said City Attorney Greg Rubens.

 Mayor Ahmad, in his speech to the dozens of residents who came out to witness the grand opening of the turf they had waited so long for, also thanked former mayors Brad Lewis, Tom Davids, Don Eaton, and Randy Royce.

 “I’ve been waiting years,” said an excited Mindy Hall, 41, of San Carlos, whose son looks forward to playing soccer on the field.

 “Everyone here is excited,” added Randy Byers, 47. “No more rain outs. We finally have a place to play.”

 The city council and city staff joined together for the ceremonial ribbon cutting, allowing residents to snap photos of the historic moment.

 “What else is there to say?” the mayor asked the crowd. “Play like champions!”