Southwest Site Wins Planning Commission Endorsement
The Minot Soccer Association has submitted a proposal to construct a multi‑field soccer complex on 20th Avenue Southwest, just west of 28th Street, a location that aligns with the city’s broader northwest/southwest bypass plan.
The association argues the project is essential to accommodate its growing roster of over 2,000 youth and adult players who currently outgrow existing fields across the city.
Community Concerns and Mitigation Strategies
Nearby residents have voiced apprehension about increased vehicle flow, noise and ongoing maintenance demands that could affect the quality of life in the neighborhood.
City engineer Roger Reich addressed those worries during a recent hearing, noting that the intersection of 22nd Avenue and 16th Street Southwest will undergo upgrades slated for 2027, aiming to ease congestion and improve safety for both players and commuters.
In addition to upgraded roadways, the association has pledged to provide ample parking and to coordinate with municipal crews to mitigate any long‑term wear on surrounding neighborhoods.
The planning commission voted 9‑0 to recommend the zone‑change approval, signaling strong municipal backing despite the pending environmental and traffic assessments.
Construction could break ground as early as this fall, though the more realistic start date hovers around 2027, giving the association time to finalize design details and secure necessary permits.
Neighborhood groups have called for stricter traffic impact studies, emphasizing that the projected surge in cars could strain local streets during peak tournament weekends.
In response, association board member Erin Parker has pledged to publish a detailed traffic management plan, incorporating input from the Minot Police Department and local businesses.
The upcoming months will see a series of public workshops where residents can voice further questions, while the association works to finalize site grading and field layout.