Hillsboro and Washington County are moving forward with a major redevelopment of the Washington County Fairgrounds Sports Complex, building on momentum from the construction of the new Hillsboro Hops Ballpark that began in summer 2024. Mayor Beach Pace emphasized the significance of the project, stating, “This Fairgrounds project is a game changer for Hillsboro community members — and for visitors who travel here to participate in games and tournaments,” noting its importance for the community’s health, well-being, and livability, according to the City of Hillsboro.
The City of Hillsboro originally planned to expand the Gordon Faber Recreation Complex to replace lost community fields, but site limitations in 2025 required a change in direction. Officials are now focusing on the Fairgrounds Sports Complex redevelopment with the goal of meeting and exceeding the city’s original expectations for recreational facilities.
The City of Hillsboro is planning updates to the Fairgrounds Sports Complex as part of its Strategic Plan to make parks more accessible and easier to use for people of all ages, abilities, and languages. The plans include adding futsal and soccer fields with artificial turf and lighting where appropriate, and modifying existing parks and schools to make space for new fields when possible. The improvements are intended to maintain the complex’s role as a regional sports venue and provide the community with better access to recreational facilities.
