The Salinas Regional Soccer Complex has secured a significant boost with a federal grant of $500,000 from the U.S. Congress. This funding aims to further develop the complex, which is envisioned as a premier sports and recreation hub, transforming previously unused land in Salinas, California. Jonathan De Anda, executive director of the Salinas Regional Sports Authority, emphasized the importance of this grant, calling it a major victory for families and youth in Monterey County.
De Anda expressed gratitude to Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren for her role in obtaining the funds, stating, “This support helps us continue building out high-quality, accessible natural grass fields that promote health, community connection, and opportunity for thousands of residents each week.” The funding will aid the expansion of the soccer complex, which aims to become the largest sports facility between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Currently, the complex serves approximately 11,500 users each week, a number projected to double upon full completion.
Expanding Opportunities for Youth and Families
In 2025, the Salinas Regional Soccer Complex hosted various events, including local school games, soccer training camps, and the national Alianza de Futbol tournament, which attracted thousands of visitors. De Anda noted that the complex also initiated the first-ever Harvest Cup, promoting wellness and philanthropy among local businesses. Lofgren highlighted the project’s significance, stating, “This is a big investment in Salinas’ future as a regional cultural hub, and I am thrilled that Californians of all ages will get to enjoy this complex for generations to come.”
The Salinas Regional Soccer Complex is part of a multi-year, multi-phase capital campaign aiming to raise $45 million to fully develop the site. Currently, the project is nearly halfway to its financial target. Key funding has come from organizations such as the Harden Foundation, Monterey Peninsula Foundation, and the David and Lucille Packard Foundation, alongside contributions from various private and public sector partners.
A Vision for a State-of-the-Art Recreation Hub
In addition to the newly announced federal grant, the project recently received $250,000 from the Ray Costa family, further supporting its ambitious goals. The completed complex will feature seven new natural grass soccer fields, a 3,000-seat lighted outdoor stadium, and a 40,000-square-foot indoor soccer arena that will include concessions, classrooms, and maintenance facilities. Future plans also encompass eight beach soccer and beach volleyball courts, as well as multi-sport courts for activities including pickleball, basketball, and volleyball.
To accommodate its growing user base, the complex will provide men’s and women’s locker rooms, restrooms, and 400 new lighted parking spaces. Environmental considerations are also a priority, with upgrades to stormwater management and protections for nearby natural habitats, including setbacks from Gabilan Creek and minor wetland restoration efforts. Recently, the complex completed a $2 million soil remediation project to safely remove arsenic-contaminated soil, ensuring the safety and sustainability of the site.
The ongoing expansion is supported by a 50-year lease on the land, with an option to extend for an additional 40 years, guaranteeing that the Salinas Regional Soccer Complex will serve the community for generations. Monterey County Supervisor Luis Alejo articulated the project’s broader impact, stating, “The Salinas Regional Soccer Complex will expand access to safe, high-quality recreational space for thousands of youths and families in Salinas, while also generating economic activity and strengthening regional pride.”
As the complex continues to develop, it holds the promise of becoming a vital resource for the community, fostering a love for sports and recreation among residents of all ages.
