There’s some good news for athletes and sports organizations in the Comox Valley, as the new artificial turf field at G.P. Vanier Secondary School is now open for community bookings.

The Comox Valley Baseball Association was the first community group to use the new field, taking to the turf this Tuesday evening.

The approximately six-million-dollar project is expected to increase year-round capacity for local sports, particularly during the wetter months when natural grass fields can be difficult to use. The nearly 8,800-square-metre field accommodates baseball, soccer, field lacrosse, field hockey, and rugby and football practice.

The new facility is the second artificial turf field at Vanier, with the first opening in 2014. It was developed through a partnership between the Comox Valley Regional District and Comox Valley Schools.

Some finishing work is still underway, including landscaping, washrooms, player benches, shelters and spectator bleachers. The public is being asked to stay out of fenced construction areas.

Community bookings are available after five p.m. on weekdays and on weekends, while the school district uses the field during most weekday school hours. More information is available through the CVRD’s website.