The newly constructed Rosslyn Heights Sports Complex has become a central gathering place for Highland High School athletes and the surrounding community. However, the facility has also introduced challenges for some nearby residents regarding noise restrictions and environmental impacts.
Located at 2291 S 2000 E, the complex features a large synthetic turf field with soccer and lacrosse lines, six full-sized tennis courts, a playground, and a covered pavilion with eight tables. The facility also includes a building with storage rooms, two team rooms, public bathrooms, and a service room equipped with an ice machine, a refrigerator, and a water faucet. According to Highland athletics director Swede Robinson, the modern facility provides athletes with up-to-date surfaces and access, though he noted that the presence of the community affects nearby homes.
The complex is designed to house multiple Highland sanctioned sports during the school rebuild, after which it will be used primarily by the neighborhood with occasional Highland practices or games. While many residents, such as Chloee Huesman, have welcomed the complex as a way to connect the school to the neighborhood, others have raised concerns. Highland principal Jeremy Chatterton stated that athletes are not allowed to play music at the complex to respect neighbors, a restriction he believes takes away from the high school experience.
Nearby resident Willow Jeppson reported that her property is significantly affected by the facility. Jeppson claimed that the artificial turf produces toxic fumes and a heat island effect, noting that during the summer, the turf measured between 160 and 170 degrees, which is approximately 70 to 80 degrees hotter than the ambient temperature. Jeppson also stated that 70-foot-tall stadium lights angle into her home, causing light pollution that makes it difficult to sleep.
