The Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors decided to continue negotiations for a proposed San José Earthquakes soccer complex at the fairgrounds, following a session in which community benefit conditions and the use of public spaces in the region.
Although the project seeks to provide sports facilities, supervisors questioned whether the current agreement provides sufficient benefits for the community, taking as a reference the example of positive impact that Levi’s Stadium represents.
The project, valued at more than $18 million, plans to build four public soccer fields and a private training center on an area of 26 acres. However, supervisors expressed displeasure with the proposed conditions, which give the football team generated revenue and a low initial investment, which Supervisor Joe Simitian called a “minimal public benefit” to the county.
Over the years, Levi’s Stadium has served as a powerful cultural and recreational center, hosting renowned sporting, cultural and concert events, and becoming an important economic resource for the City of Santa Clara. Supervisors want the Earthquakes project to reflect the same commitment to community value.
Supervisor Susan Ellenberg highlighted the importance of using the fairgrounds effectively, taking advantage of the opportunity to turn this space into a key community resource. The shortage of adequate sports facilities in Santa Clara County remains a concern, with many neighborhoods lacking accessible areas for sports and recreational activities. In this context, Earthquakes coach Steven Sosa stressed the value of more public fields for youth, emphasizing that safe and accessible spaces promote mental health and teach teamwork skills.
Additionally, the project faces environmental and transparency concerns. Community and environmental groups are urging reconsideration of the use of artificial turf, and supervisors are seeking to involve the community more in developing the plan. Supervisor Sylvia Arenas emphasized the need for transparency and community participation, ensuring that any investment in the project must reflect proper use of public funds.
Despite concerns, supervisors agreed that the project has the potential to meet recreational needs and improve the quality of life in the county.
As negotiations continue, the San José Earthquakes are expected to adjust the project to provide a strong and attractive community benefit, serving as a resource for county residents. The Board of Supervisors stressed that a proposal that strikes a balance between economic sustainability and public benefit will be key to the success of the project, thus seeking that the soccer complex will have a positive impact comparable to that which Levi’s Stadium has had on the city of Santa Clara.
