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Hybla Valley Park is getting a major overhaul, including a dedicated futsal court that reflects strong community demand for the fast-growing form of soccer.

The Fairfax County Park Authority’s renovation of the park off Lockheed Boulevard also includes a basketball court, a larger playground, more seating, parking lot improvements and new furnishings.

Futsal is typically played on a hard court slightly larger than a basketball court. Each team fields five players, including a goalkeeper. The sport is especially popular in Argentina and has attracted a growing following in the United States.

Community members backed the addition during the park planning process. The Park Authority presented several renovation concepts at Hybla Valley Elementary School in September 2024, then gathered feedback at the meeting and during a subsequent public comment period.

Residents favored a substantial playground, futsal and basketball courts, and additional places to sit. Among 90 local respondents asked about court options, 79% said futsal and basketball would provide the greatest benefit to the community, ranking them ahead of tennis.

The project will transform the existing tennis courts into separate futsal and basketball courts. A practice tennis court will become the new playground.

Brittany Vasquez, the Park Authority’s public relations manager, said the renovation is part of Fairfax County’s Parks, Recreation, Open Space, and Access Strategy, known as PROSA. The initiative focuses on equitable access to parks and recreational amenities, and identified Hybla Valley Park as an investment opportunity with the potential for lasting community benefits.

The smaller footprint required for futsal gives residents a place to play and practice soccer where a full-size athletic field may not be practical. Vasquez said the new futsal and basketball courts are expected to serve both neighborhood residents and the adjacent elementary school.

Construction was scheduled to begin during the first week of March 2025 and conclude by the end of summer 2025.