Third water-based field opens at Surrey's Tamanawis Park

Surrey has completed a third water-based synthetic turf field at Tamanawis Park, creating what the city says is Canada's only field hockey complex with three elite-level pitches.

The new field cost $4.94 million and was funded through the city's Parks, Recreation and Culture capital budget, provincial gaming revenue and the Canada Community-Building Fund. Water-based turf, used for high-level competition, has short, dense artificial grass that is periodically sprayed to create a smooth, fast playing surface.

Mayor Brenda Locke said the facility will expand opportunities for young athletes and support Surrey's role as a field hockey destination. The city is set to host Field Hockey Canada's 2026 U18 National Championships.

Coun. Gordon Hepner, chair of the Parks, Recreation and Sport Tourism Committee, said the project supports Surrey's sport tourism strategy by helping attract national and international events and related economic activity.

Tamanawis Park in Newton covers 19.5 acres and includes a baseball diamond, sport court, picnic shelters and walking paths linked to the Serpentine Greenway. The city also plans a $3.26-million fieldhouse with change rooms and washrooms, bringing the total investment in the park improvements to $8.2 million. Project information is available at surrey.ca/parkprojects.