Newberry Gains 60 Acres for Sports Complex Expansion

NEWBERRY ‒ A land donation to the City of Newberry may soon provide for expanded local reactional opportunities and revenue generation. The Newberry City Commission on Nov. 25, 2024, approved the acceptance of a 60-acre land donation from the Suwannee River Water Management District (SRWMD). This acquisition, located adjacent to Easton-Newberry Sports Complex, is valued at $900,000.

Newberry Director of Capital Projects and Facilities Joe Lovelady detailed the years-long negotiations with SRWMD to secure the property, originally acquired by the district in the 1980s for use as a city wellfield. The land already hosts two city water wells, treatment facilities, and an elevated storage tank, with plans for additional wells as needed. Most of the tract remains undeveloped, serving as a vital buffer to protect the water supply.

“The Deed of Conveyance and Conservation Easement Agreement resulted from hours of persistent negotiations to reach an agreement that meets the needs of Newberry citizens while preserving protections important to SRWMD,” Lovelady said.

The donated land opens opportunities for the city to expand its recreation offerings. The site may be used to house three lighted, multi-purpose turf sports fields, part of the city’s 10-year parks master plan. These fields aim to meet increasing demand for local recreation. Lovelady noted that development of the fields aligns with the city’s FY 2024-2025 budget, funded by the county-wide Wild Spaces Public Places sales tax.

As part of the agreement, SRWMD will thin pine trees on the property before conveyance and impose a conservation easement to restrict certain types of development. While the easement prohibits the construction of impervious surfaces like roads, parking lots, and buildings, it permits recreational development such as turf fields.

“Staff reviewed the proposed conservation easement and finds that it constrains development but is workable,” Lovelady explained. “It permits construction of multi-purpose turf fields, aligning with our master plan.”

The Commission voted unanimously to accept the land donation, authorize the City Manager and City Attorney to finalize the acquisition, and proceed with the closing.

#     #     #

Email cwalker@

alachuatoday.com