New York City plans to build 50 new soccer fields

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(NYCFC.com)

NEW YORK (AP) — New York City will build 50 new soccer fields over the next five years with assists from Adidas, the U.S. Soccer Foundation and the professional soccer team New York City FC.

Mayor Bill de Blasio announced the $3 million public-private partnership on Tuesday at the Bronx playground where the first eight soccer fields will be built.

The soccer fields will be located in underserved communities throughout the five boroughs. The $3 million includes funding for maintenance and for soccer clinics and after-school programs.

De Blasio said the new fields will help keep young New Yorkers safe, active and connected to the community.

Marty Edelman, the vice chairman of New York City FC, said the initiative shows "how we can use the power of soccer to transform young people's lives."