In 2001, Arlington County, with the financial support of Marymount University, proposed to replace the natural-grass upper field at Thomas Jefferson Community Center with a synthetic grass field. The proposal included significant improvements to the field, including 250-seat bleachers. The field would have been reserved for use by Marymount during certain times in consideration of Marymount's funding of the project.
After encountering intense community opposition, including the formal opposition of both the Thomas Jefferson PTA and the Arlington Heights Community Association, the county withdrew the proposal.
Documentation on proposal
Fact Sheet on Synthethic Grass Soccer Fields prepared by Janis Wood, chief, Arlington County Sports Division.
Ms. Wood wrote, "Attached you will find the Fact Sheet Regarding the Proposed Installation of Synthetic Grass at the Thomas Jefferson Upper Field or Another Field Location. Copies of this fact sheet will also be available at the Thomas Jefferson Community Center, 3501 South Second Street, and the Sports Division's Administrative Office located on the second floor of the Lubber Run Community Center, 300 North Park Drive in Arlington beginning Monday, April 16, 2001. PRCR staff attending the Jefferson Middle School April PTA meeting and the Arlington Heights Civic Association's April meeting will bring copies of this fact sheet to these meetings.Additional letter of clarification from County Board member Chris Zimmerman on Saturday, April 14 2001