Why buy artificial turf for Legion Stadium now?

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — A million-dollar makeover. Legion Stadium is about to kiss its grass goodbye, and taxpayers will pick up the tab for artificial turf. With the economy still in trouble, why now?

There were many pros and cons when making this decision, but the biggest worry for many taxpayers is the price tag.

The artificial turf is a joint project between New Hanover County, the City of Wilmington and New Hanover County Schools. Each will pay its third of the nearly million-dollar price tag.

Yesterday county commissioners discussed the project and brought up pros like the unlimited number of games that could be played on the surface and the minimal maintenance.

Despite those positives, some elected leaders question the timing.

“We got a great turf field. We had a great turf field last year. We would still have a great turf field next year. It would be one of the first things I would want to do when I think we can afford it, but at some point, any time, we have to stop spending money we don’t absolutely have to spend,” county commissioner Rick Catlin said.

Catlin and Brian Berger voted against the county’s funding of the artificial turf. Despite their votes the commission approved the spending with a three to two vote.