Joining in on the excitement of the upcoming FIFA World Cup, the Pittsburg City Commission approved the development of a new park featuring soccer fields.

For months, many soccer players from the Pittsburg area have appeared before the City Commissioners to advocate for much-needed soccer fields. A search for the right spot was conducted, and after several months, a purchase of space for the sport was made during Tuesday’s city commission meeting.

The property, purchased from Mercy Health Pittsburg, is located between Hospital Drive and Springdale Street south of Centennial Drive. The park will sit on 23.7 acres and feature three full-size soccer fields, serving Pittsburg and the surrounding region. The site would also include a walking trail around the lake, offering additional amenities for residents.

Both the City and Mercy share a vision for strengthening community well‑being and enhancing local amenities.

“Mercy thanks the City Commission for approving this transaction, and we couldn’t possibly be more excited to watch what the City has planned to provide the community,” said Dave Smith, Mercy Health Pittsburg administrator. “We appreciate the opportunity to lend our name to the development, deepening our integration into the community. It brings all of us joy to think about being neighbors with a new Pittsburg staple that families will enjoy for years to come.”

City Manager Daron Hall said, “We appreciate the willingness of Mercy to continue our partnership by allowing us to purchase these unique assets for our citizens. Not only does it provide soccer facilities and ample parking, but also a wonderful lake for the entire community to enjoy. We look forward to developing this over the next few years and turn it into another wonderful destination in Pittsburg.”

Beyond providing a place to play soccer, fish, walk, and enjoy the outdoors, the park will also serve as another way to encourage visitors to the area.

“Our goal is to provide a much-needed space for our soccer community and hopefully host tournaments, attract visitors, and create a highly visible recreation destination,” City of Pittsburg Housing and Community Development Director Kim Froman said.

The development of the park will start after design details are finalized. The city is hoping to have soccer fields ready for play in 2027.