The Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors approved $1.5 million Tuesday for the Santa Maria Sports Complex, which is set to be completed in 2026.

Construction of the project began in April and is located on Stowell Road and Depot Street in Santa Maria. The new complex covers 19.7 acres and will feature four soccer fields, basketball courts, a walking trail with exercise stations, a playground and a plaza with an art wall.

“This has been about a 10-year project so far, with thousands of members’ input from the community (and) outside the community,” said Dennis Smitherman, Santa Maria’s recreation services manager.  

“We do believe that it will be a strong economic driver for the city and county, and we’re going to make sure that it is a sustainable park for our community to thrive and play and really have a great time.”

Smitherman said the project originally began in 2015 and included town halls where community members were able to provide input on what the park should have.

Fifth District Supervisor Steve Lavagnino said the project fills a need that the community has been requesting. His office brought the request for funding to the board.

Lavagnino explained that the idea for the park came during a time when there was more youth violence in Santa Maria. He said that when officials were asked how they could help, parents “resoundingly” asked for soccer fields and other activities that let their kids run around and play.  

“I just want to thank the city that they heard that,” Lavagnino said.

The money for the sports complex was allocated from the county’s general fund. The project has already received $6.1 million from the Statewide Park Development Grant and $1 million from the City of Santa Maria.

The Board of Supervisors approved the transfer of funds in a 5-0 vote Tuesday.