Land previously given to Whitehall Township by Clear Channel could soon become fields for soccer and field hockey.

Mayor Edward D. Hozza Jr. announced the possibility of converting the 18.3 acres of land into fields at the Dec. 9 board of commissioners meeting.

Hozza told The Press Friday the township will work on the fields in 2014. It will not have to go before the planning commission, he said.

Tri Boro Soccer, which has operated a soccer program in the township for years, is expected to partner with the township on the potential project. Tri Boro has been using property on the Whitehall-Coplay School District campus for its various youth programs.

The space in question is located off Columbia Street, west of Route 145, according Hozza. The township has made it clear the land will not be used for commercial or residential development.

Hozza noted the land would not include a playground. A township publication, distributed to township residents for a fee, will further explain the proposed recreation project.

Calling the soccer and field hockey proposal a "long range project," Hozza said at least some of the work may be accomplished in house by public works and recreation department personnel.

In another issue raised by Commissioner Gerard Palagonia, Hozza shot down a rumor that a gazebo will be erected at the Prydun Farm for wedding ceremonies.

Hozza said he has officiated at wedding ceremonies, turning over any money earned to the township's recreation fund.