Simsbury Soccer Club, Town Ink Deal For Field Renovations

Town of Simsbury

SIMSBURY, CT — Town officials and the Simsbury Soccer Club (SSC) have announced the signing of a long-term license agreement for the use of Curtiss Park.

The agreement calls for the club, through philanthropy and fundraising efforts, to make impactful upgrades and improvements to the property, located at 61 Tariffville Road (Route 315).

Planned improvements include a new concession facility with indoor restrooms, permanent lighting, parking lot and paving upgrades, as well as other facility enhancements which will improve the soccer experience.

The Simsbury Soccer Club celebrates its 50th year in operation this year, providing organized soccer for Simsbury youths ranging in age between 4 and 18 years with two playing seasons annually.

“Over its existence, SSC management and volunteers have touched the lives of tens of thousands of individuals in our community,” said Benjamin Berger, club president. “We are thankful to all of our stakeholders, funders, and to the town’s board of selectmen for such strong support of our mission.”

Town leaders undertook a comprehensive approval process, including hosting multiple public meetings to solicit comments and suggestions from the public.

Selectmen approved the license agreement at its regular meeting on Sept. 8 for a term of 10 years, with provisions for two five-year extensions.

“This agreement positions the club, its patrons, and stakeholders to undertake these improvements, and the associated private fundraising, which will provide for a best-in-class soccer experience,” said Berger.

Town officials noted all improvements to the property will be subject to permitting and approvals of the relevant town land-use boards and commissions.

Funding for the planned improvements will be from private donations and grants.

“Today, local governments must look to these types of structured public-private partnerships, which bring private philanthropy to the table when planning projects with a focused community benefit. Our congratulations to the Simsbury Soccer Club on the occasion of its 50th birthday,” Simsbury Town Manager Marc Nelson said.

For more information on the Simsbury Soccer Club, click on this link.