By Kate Joseph
Staff Writer
Simmons College announced plans on Thursday, Oct. 22 to restore Daly Field in Brighton into a state-of-the-art athletic complex through a public-private partnership.
The facilities will be shared among Brighton High School, Allston-Brighton Little League, the general public, and Simmons College Athletics. The new Daly Field Athletic Complex is set to open summer 2016.
Daly Field has been in disrepair for more than 20 years. Simmons College was approached in 2011 by the Allston-Brighton community to be a partner in the renovation of the athletic facility.
“We are thrilled to participate in this dynamic partnership that not only exemplifies our commitment to girls and women by investing in athletics – an experience proven to positively impact women’s leadership development – but also expands our core value of investing in the community,” said Simmons College President Helen Drinan. “Engaging in sports activities, regardless of level, is good for all.”
Daly field, which is owned and managed by the Commonwealth throughout the Department of Conservation and Recreation, spans seven acres in Brighton along the Charles River.
The new athletic facility will include:
- New 3,200 square foot field house
- Tennis courts
- Soccer and Lacrosse fields
- Softball diamond
- Field hockey turf field
- Football turf field
- Quarter-mile walking track
- Bike/walking path
- Sports lighting
- Digital scoreboard
- Spectator stadium seating with press box
The Daly Field Athletic Complex will be shared according to schedules determined by Simmons College and Allston-Brighton athletic programs. It will be open to the public seven days a week as well.
Through this venture, Simmons hopes to boost the quality of its athletic programs and make greater strides to be part of the community.
“It’s a great opportunity,” said Brighton High School Athletic Director and Football Coach Randolph Abraham. “That means children are going to get to grow up being more active, having the kind of state-of-the-art facility you see in other communities, but clearly lacking in Brighton.”
