The Bellevue City Council on Monday hired firms to design synthetic-turf soccer fields at Newport Hills Park and Wilburton Hill Park.

The soccer fields at those parks have only been available for limited use during the rainy months, when the grass would turn to mud under pounding cleats. With synthetic turf, the lighted fields can be used year-round.

The council also authorized consulting contracts with two local firms to perform site design and engineering for the field conversion projects. DA Hogan and Associates will complete design work at Newport Hills Park, while Bruce Dees and Associates will lead the design effort for the conversion at Wilburton Hill.

Both upgrades were included in the Parks and Natural Areas Levy approved by voters in November. Installation is expected to begin in the fall.