Modesto Selects Downtown for New Professional Soccer Stadium

Modesto is set to welcome professional soccer, with city officials confirming plans for a new stadium in the downtown area.

Negotiations with the United Soccer League have been ongoing, focusing on establishing both men's and women's teams in the city. After extensive community engagement through workshops and listening sessions, city leaders decided on a dual-site approach.

This week, the Modesto City Council cast a unanimous vote to designate downtown as the primary location for the soccer stadium. Additionally, they approved the development of the West End Golf Course into a practice and tournament facility.

The total investment for this ambitious project is projected at approximately $188 million, which includes around $125 million earmarked for the downtown stadium and an estimated $62 million for land acquisition and parking infrastructure.

"This is about making our downtown a true gathering place," stated Mayor Sue Zwahlen. "We already have a vibrant city center, and this would take it to the next level."

Plans also encompass the construction of a hotel and nearly 940 residential units, with over 230 designated as affordable housing, adjacent to the West Modesto facility.

Formal negotiations with the USL commenced last September, with an agreement allowing both parties until this fall to finalize arrangements.

If the proposal receives final approval, the new stadium will replace the longstanding Modesto Centre Plaza, marking a significant transformation in the downtown landscape.