DANA POINT : Construction to Begin on New Softball Fields

Upgrades to the sports fields at Dana Hills High School could begin as early as November under a $1.14-million contract awarded this week.

The City Council agreed that Micon Engineering Inc. of Placentia will construct two softball fields with lighting, as well a concession stand, bleachers and restrooms. The fields also can be used for soccer, field hockey and football, said Bonnie Nicholl, community services manager.

Local groups will be able to use the fields, which will be managed like a public park, Nicholl said. No organized adult leagues, however, would be scheduled.

“We’re looking forward to providing much-needed sports fields for the youth of our community, keeping in mind the concerns of surrounding neighbors,” Nicholl said.

The project has been opposed by some people who live near the site at Street of the Golden Lantern and Acapulco Drive. Their concerns centered on whether the new lighting would spill over to homes and whether the expansion of the sports facilities would bring more noise and traffic.

In an effort to minimize negative effects on the neighborhood, the plan calls for the 70-foot-high field lights to be pointed away from the neighborhood and to be shut off automatically at 9 every night during the summer and at 7 during the winter.