OMAHA, Neb. – The City of Omaha will invest $54 million at Tranquility Park to create a premier youth multi-sport complex and tournament facility.
Tranquility Park, built 50 years ago and managed by the Omaha Parks and Recreation Department, is the city’s only public soccer complex. The park has 17 soccer fields including one synthetic turf field and eight natural turf baseball fields.
A 2020 study conducted by Huddle Up Group recommended eight to 15 synthetic turf flat multi-purpose fields and eight to 11 baseball/softball synthetic turf fields. Estimates show more than 45,000 local children play organized soccer, baseball, and softball, and two-thirds of the city’s youth soccer league games are played at Tranquility Park.
“We need more high-quality athletic fields to serve youth throughout our community,” says Mayor Jean Stothert. “Upgrades to Tranquility Park will provide greater access for all players in Omaha and the opportunity to host regional and national tournaments.”
Plans include 13-16 synthetic turf multi-purpose fields and eight to 11 synthetic turf baseball/softball fields, and improved parking and concessions.
“Youth athletics is part of our mission,” says Omaha Parks and Recreation director Matt Kalcevich. “Tranquility will be a championship-level sports complex that will draw teams from all Omaha neighborhoods and around the country for outstanding athletic and fan experiences.”
“The project is a real game changer. When complete, the updated playing fields will give us the opportunity to attract at least 20 new regional and national youth sporting events to our city. Those tournaments are projected to bring in more than $78 million in direct visitor spending every year,” says Deborah Ward, Visit Omaha executive director.
Construction will begin with the soccer fields in 2024, while baseball and softball improvements will begin in 2026. The project is estimated to be completed in 2027.
“The Tranquility Park facilities will quite literally level the playing field and be a catalyst for significant growth, neighborhood revitalization, and economic development,” says Stothert.
