Scope of Work

The estimated capacity of the Glendale Sports Complex Parking Lot – Carport Solar Project is 1,343 kW (1.34 MW). This solar array is estimated to produce over 2 million kWh/year of clean solar energy. That is equivalent to powering 301 homes annually. The carport solar arrays will also provide an added benefit of shade to the community members who park their vehicles at the Sports Complex during their athletic activities. 

To facilitate the successful implementation of the Sports Complex Solar Project, it is necessary to remove 25 trees from and near the perimeter of the parking lot. These trees include three species: California Sycamore trees which are native to California, Olive trees which are non-native to California, and Pink Locust trees which are non-native to California and are invasive to native species. 

To offset the impact, we have developed a comprehensive replanting plan. Upon completion of the solar project, we will strategically plant 15 native California trees around the Sports Complex perimeter. In addition, 20 native California trees will be planted at Montrose Community Park and Emeral Isle Park. This replanting plan will not only replace non-native tree species with native California trees but also result in a net increase of 10 trees.

Click here to view the tree removal & replacement plan.

Parking

“No Parking” signs will be posted in different locations throughout the construction phases. Parking will be limited, so please allow yourself extra time before games and practices to navigate the parking lot, as some areas will be closed, and spaces will be limited. There will be overflow parking, with signs directing you to additional spaces and shuttle services will be available during the evenings on weekdays and operating hours on the weekends. Pedestrian crossings and ADA ramps will remain accessible at all times. 

Click here to view the letter that was sent to community members in the Fern Lane area, the athletic organizations, and individuals affiliated with the Sports Complex.

Community Meeting

GWP held a community meeting on Thursday, October 3, 2024, at the Sparr Heights Community Center from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. During this meeting we provided information about the project and shared our plans of addressing any impact on landscaping and parking during the construction.

Construction Schedule

Solar Optimum is the contractor conducting the design, engineering, and construction of the solar project. To minimize disruptions to public access at the Sports Complex, the project will be completed in two rolling phases. 

Construction was originally planned to begin in December 2024, but has been pushed out to August 2025 to allow for additional time to complete the electrical substructure engineering and permitting process, adjust the canopy height clearances to 15', and to avoid construction during the Sports Complex's busy summer season between June and mid-August. 

The project will be conducted in 2 phases, each lasting approximately 4-6 weeks.

Work hours will be between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. to minimize the impact on the late afternoon and evening peak operational hours of the athletic fields. 

Project Activity

October 2024: Completed tree removal plan in preparation for project mobilization and construction.

November 2024: Design & engineering for solar canopy layout in progress. Began preparations for overflow parking areas.

December 2024: Submitted plans to GWP Engineering and Building & Safety for plan review. 

January 2025: Completed the tree replacement plan at Emerald Isle Park. The Community Service & Parks Department planted 10 Alders adjacent to the children’s playground area.

February 2025: Continued surface grading and vegetation management for overflow parking areas.

March 2025: Completed sidewalk maintenance and repairs for overflow parking access. Received plan check comments from Building & Safety for building code sections related to canopy dimensions and fire apparatus access.

April 2025: Continued architectural revisions for height clearances and canopy dimensions.

Contact Information 

For specific questions about the project, contact:

Bryan Salazar
bsalazar@glendaleca.gov