A new soccer plaza is coming to Oak Cliff, thanks to the FIFA World Cup Legacy Project. The Common Ground Soccer Plaza, located near East Jefferson Boulevard, will feature five turf soccer fields, a pavilion, public art, and a food truck plaza. The project, which is expected to cost $3.5 million, is being funded by FIFA, with contractors contributing $2 million.
Community Effort
The plaza is the result of a community effort, with local partners working together to bring the project to life. Puede Network, an Oak Cliff nonprofit, is teaming up with FIFA to manage the plaza and provide youth programming. The organization’s founder, Adan Gonzalez, said the project reflects the neighborhood’s work ethic and desire for opportunity.
The plaza will be completed before the World Cup ends and will provide a long-term gathering place for local youth. It will also host tournaments and leagues, with field rentals and events expected to support youth programming. The revenue will help fund programs focused on academic success, healthy living, community engagement, athletics, and social-emotional growth.
Legacy Project
The Common Ground Soccer Plaza is part of FIFA’s Legacy Program, which aims to leave permanent community projects in World Cup host regions after the tournament ends. The program is designed to promote community development and provide opportunities for local youth.
Mariela Estrada of Marcer Construction said the idea for the plaza grew out of a conversation with North Texas World Cup organizers about legacy initiatives. The unused DART property offered an opportunity to turn an underused site into something lasting for children.
Dallas City Council Member Chad West praised the cooperation among the city, DART, and other partners, saying it helped the project move quickly. Gateway Soccer Plaza LLC is leasing the property from DART, and workers broke ground in early May.
Among the students looking forward to the new plaza is 14-year-old Ayden Maldonado, who said it will provide a safe place to make better opportunities. Gonzalez said the project shows what can happen when local groups move quickly around a shared goal.
Original reporting: The Dallas Express — read the source article.
