Minnesota United, Toro roll out irrigated natural grass soccer field at Arlington Hills Community Center

Frederick Melo, Pioneer Press
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With Minnesota United mascot PK the loon cheering them on, employees of the professional soccer franchise and the Toro Company Foundation rolled out sod Thursday at the Arlington Hills Community Center on Payne Avenue.

St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter and newly-appointed Parks and Recreation Director Andy Rodriguez joined officials from both organizations for the unveiling of a long-awaited upgrade to the community center’s outdoor field. The two groups helped fund the installation of an irrigated natural grass soccer field, expected to be the premiere natural grass field for the city’s East Side rec centers.

The previous playing surface was uneven and unfinished, said Rodriguez, limiting play and events.

Funding included $30,000 from the two companies, $15,000 from city STAR grant funds and roughly $25,000 in labor and services from Parks and Rec.

“I think it’s the start of an awesome partnership,” said Rodriguez. “The sports teams are really stepping up. There’s an opportunity to do something annually. It’s been alluded to, but the conversations are ongoing. I talk to (Minnesota) United all the time now. They’re in our backyard.”

The St. Paul Saints will begin renovations next week on the baseball field at the North Dale Rec Center on St. Albans Street. The Saints will bring their mascot and oversee walk-up music and announcements for a handful of rec center team games at that location on June 11.

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