NABNASSET — The Nutting Field turf replacement project has officially been completed, The Westford Public Works Department announced on Friday.
“We’re excited to share that the Nutting Field turf replacement project is officially complete!” Public Works said in the announcement. “From removal of the existing surface to installation of the new turf system, this project represents a major investment in a safer, more durable, and high-quality playing surface for our community. We appreciate everyone’s patience during construction and are proud to deliver an upgraded field for athletes of all ages.”
According to Public Works, the project replaced the aging synthetic turf, which was originally installed in 2012. That field, built for approximately $1.28 million using Community Preservation Act funds and donations, had exceeded its projected lifespan of eight to ten years and was entering its 14th season.
The field’s outdated condition sparked concern about player safety from members of the community, due to its frequent use by the town’s youth and adult soccer and lacrosse programs, prompting calls for a replacement. In addition, GMAX testing conducted in late 2024 and early 2025, which is a standard used to measure surface hardness and impact absorption, showed readings ranging from the mid-170s to above 200 — with several readings measured above the limit considered safe for athletic play.
Although interim maintenance, including the addition of 20,000 pounds of crumb rubber infill, helped improve conditions, town officials determined that a full replacement of the turf was necessary.
Town officials ultimately endorsed an “in-kind” turf replacement rather than converting the fields to natural grass. The plan received support from the Parks and Recreation Commission, Finance Committee, Capital Committee and Select Board. Although the project initially failed during the 2025 Annual Town Meeting, it was approved by voters with an overwhelming majority during the 2025 Special Town Meeting, with 562 votes to 131.
The turf replacement work included removing the existing surface, preparing the base and installing a new synthetic turf system with an added shock pad. Public Works said the shock pad is designed to enhance impact absorption and extend the usable life of the field, increasing the warranty period from eight years to approximately 12 years. Construction required a temporary closure of the fields for approximately three to four weeks.
Town officials evaluated an alternative option to convert the site to natural grass, but determined it would require up to a year longer closure, along with additional infrastructure such as irrigation and drainage systems. That option also carried higher ongoing maintenance costs, estimated at about $110,000 annually, compared with minimal increases under the turf plan.
Additionally, town officials said usage demands played a role in the decision to replace the fields with the new synthetic turf as opposed to natural grass, as synthetic turf fields can accommodate 60 to 80 or more hours of weekly use and remain playable shortly after rain or during colder months. By contrast, natural grass fields typically support only 20 to 24 hours per week and require rest periods, particularly after inclement weather. In order to meet the current demands with the soccer and lacrosse teams using the field, grass fields would require two to four times more space.
Finally, town officials said environmental considerations were part of the review. Although grass fields offer benefits such as stormwater absorption and carbon sequestration, synthetic turf provides reduced water usage and lower routine chemical applications. However, town officials did acknowledge the concerns associated with turf, including heat retention, stormwater runoff and disposal challenges at the end of its life cycle.
In the announcement of the project’s completion, town officials described the new surface as a safer and more reliable playing environment for athletes of all ages.
Public Works shared a time-lapse video on social media documenting the full transformation, from removal of the old turf to installation of the new system, thanking residents, contractors and project partners for their cooperation during construction and inviting community members to share photos of the field in use as activity resumes.
As the upgraded Nutting Community Fields are now open, they are expected to support a full schedule of youth sports, school athletics and recreational programming in town throughout the year.
