Southshore Little League (SSLL) has big dreams and big plans for Redbud Ballpark. The league is initiating on a near million-dollar project that will not only enhance the area aesthetically but also provide better accommodations for recreational use.
SSLL recently received approval from the Clearlake City Council to proceed with its plans to revamp the ball fields, which are located on city-owned property. The league requested no monetary commitment from the city; however it did ask for waivers where permit fees are concerned.
The league also requested minimal assistance at no charge, from the Public Works Department in obtaining locations on underground storm drains and water, sewer and electrical lines.
The project will be carried out on a five-year construction plan estimated to cost $980,000. The league is currently awaiting word in obtaining a $200,000 grant from the PG&E Stewardship Council. “We are hoping to hear whether we will receive the grant or not by July or August,” reported league representative Lori Peters. Peters said the grant will be used to carry out the first phase of the project, which includes tearing down the junior field located on the south corner of the ball park and rebuilding it. Plans are to include lighting and a parking lot as well.
According to Peters, plans are to begin construction after the local adult coed softball league finishes its season, which normally ends around the beginning of November.
Additional funding will be raised through community donations. Peters further reported that the league has also received commitments of volunteer labor from Chernoh Excavating, Case Construction and Sanders Construction to help with the demolition of the existing fields. Tony Bordisso Construction and Red”s Construction have offered to help with the rebuilding of the structural facilities such as the bathrooms and a new snack shack as well.
“It”s pretty exciting having all these entities working together for the betterment of our community and its youth,” said Peters. “We are still looking for someone to donate the fencing and turf materials though.”
Presently, redesign plans include: the addition of one multi-use tee-ball field/lower minor field; changes to the dimensions of the fields; addition of new snack shack, restrooms, office, meeting center and storage facility; addition of new score keeper”s booth and announcer”s booth at all fields; repair or construction of new dugouts on all fields; addition of electronic scoreboards and sound systems to three fields; addition of lighting to two fields and wiring for future lighting of a third field; construction of permanent bleachers at all fields; grading and leveling of surface as needed to allow proper drainage; installation of new sprinkler system for all fields; landscaping and lighting for entire facility; construction of playground equipment; construction of outdoor dining area; construction of decorative and chain link security fencing around perimeter of facility; construction of paved parking lots; construction of curbs, gutter and sidewalks along Ballpark Avenue; and speed bump installation on Ballpark Avenue.
Anyone interested in contributing to Southshore Little League”s field of dreams is encouraged to contact league secretary/treasurer Cindy Eagle at 995-1138.
Contact Denise Rockenstein at drockenstein@clearlakeobserver.com.
