Dec. 10, 2014:

To the Editor:

The residents of Bronxville are being asked by the board of education to vote on a $2.2 million plan to install synthetic turf on Hayes Field. Many residents have expressed concern about the environmental and health effects of having an additional synthetic turf field, as well as resistance to the loss of a natural grass play area for the students and community.

A great natural grass field that holds up to lots of play is possible. The Almstead Tree, Shrub, and Lawn Care Co. recently provided a report on what it would take to transform Hayes Field from the neglected, muddy, and uneven surface which we now have into a well-maintained and durable natural turf field. 

Some of the techniques that Almstead recommends for Hayes Field are regrading, the use of specialty rye grasses, sod secured with player-safe staples while roots are being established, frequent core aeration, and re-seeding. 

The preliminary estimate for the up-front cost to prepare Hayes Field starting in June for use in September is $95,000 to $150,000. A high-end estimate of $30,000 per year for ongoing maintenance would include re-sodding all worn areas up to three to four times a year as needed.

The FEMA flood mitigation plan includes resurfacing Hayes Field with natural turf at no extra cost. Why not invest our efforts (and far less money) into maintaining a natural turf field using state-of-the-art techniques before we cover the whole surface in plastic?

Our children and our community deserve a natural grass field. 

Gretchen Pingel
Bronxville, New York

Editor's note: MyhometownBronxville does not fact-check statements in letters to the editor, and the opinions do not necessarily reflect the thinking of its staff. Its objective in publishing letters to the editor is to give air to diverse thoughts and opinions of residents in the community.