Irving Parks and Recreation is expanding opportunities for cricket enthusiasts with the construction of two new cricket fields and upgrades to existing facilities across the city.
At Sam Houston Trail Park (101 E. Interstate 635 in Far North Irving) and Mountain Creek Preserve (1005 E. Hunter Ferrell Road in South Irving), two new cricket fields are in the works, providing ample space for players to practice their skills. Additionally, irrigation systems will be installed at three existing cricket fields to maintain top-quality playing conditions.
Work began earlier this year, with site preparation and grading underway. Pitch installation is set to commence this month, followed by irrigation installation in the summer, weather permitting. Sod will be laid in the fall, with the fields expected to open for public use once established.
Funding for these projects has been secured through various channels, including $217,414 in federal American Rescue Plan Act funds allocated by the Irving City Council. Additional funding is pending for essential components such as concrete cricket pitches, sod installation, and shade elements.
Efforts to maximize cost efficiency include collaboration with the city's Water Utilities Department, which will install an irrigation meter at one of the fields, resulting in cost savings for the city.
