Construction to remove the astroturf in Downtown Silver Spring (DTSS) and replace it with the Silver Spring Civic Center and Veteran’s Plaza began September 9. The decision to convert the popular turf is extremely controversial amongst community members, prompting protests in favor of keeping the turf.

Wednesday, September 9 marked the official start of construction. Montgomery County Executive Ike Legget was present at the ceremony along with other county officials.

According to the Silver Spring Penguin, a blog disscusing DTSS, Legget addressed the crowd gathered at the ceremony, explaining the reasons behind the delay in construction, which was originally allotted to be finished in 2008. He assured the audience that the delay gave more time to perfect the design.

Developed by the Montgomery County/ PFA Silver Spring, LLC and designed by Architects, Machado and Silvetti of Boston, the building was designed to be flexible in its use.

The turf was placed as a temporary substitute for the gravel lot that was originally intended to be developed into a Civic Building featuring a pavilion for concerts and multi-purpose skating rink.

Many citizens grew accustomed to the astroturf and were in favor of retaining it permanently. This idea was vetoed by the staff of the Montgomery County Planning Board. The decision was made unanimously because the upkeep of the Astroturf was an arduous effort and the benefits of the building would eventually be greater.

“ I never really liked it. The turf was uncomfortable to sit on because it was spiky and there were rocks all over it. I always thought it was kind of shady how they cleaned it,” junior Daniel Myung said.

The Veteran’s Plaza that will accompany the building will feature nearly an acre of green grass and will replace the original plans for a pavilion, hosting concerts and related events. The plaza will honor local people who have served in the military.

Scheduled to open in the fall of 2009, the 42,000 square foot Civic Building will boast green material and construction. The edifice will serve as a center of community activities. Events such as concerts, conferences, banquets and other meetings will be held in the Grand Hall of the building.

Aside from the Grand Hall, there will be four other rooms available for community use, including a gallery space. The building will also serve as host of a sect of The Round House Theatre School.

“I think it is a good idea because, first of all, it will prevent the loitering and fighting that happens on [the turf]. It will give downtown Silver Spring a better value,” sophomore Karen Grinage said.