Countryside Fields Special Project Request 2024

Edina Baseball Association (EBA) has submitted a special project proposal for diamond fields upgrades to fields 1 and 2 at Countryside Park. Edina Baseball Association is the primary user for Fields 1 and 2 at Countryside Park. Both fields have amenities such as dugouts and fencing. The applicants request and proposal outlines their association’s identified needs and justifications (click here for full request). The request includes replacing natural grass and turf infields with synthetic turf, replacing and extending backstops, and new scoreboards.

Countryside Park is in the northwest quadrant of Edina, in a neighborhood bearing the same name. This park is classified as a neighborhood park at 11.6 acres. Developed in the 1960’s, this active park includes a playground, tennis courts, basketball court, lighted hockey and open skate rink, flex use field, and a shelter building with security and wayfinding lighting. A staff report was presented to Edina Parks and Recreation Commission on May 13th outline project impacts and requesting next steps (click here for full report).

Association Proposed Project:

1. EBA would like to transition from natural grass and dirt infields to artificial turf; this is a significant upgrade that brings numerous benefits. Artificial turf provides a consistent playing surface regardless of weather conditions, reducing the impact of rain and improving playability. It also requires less maintenance, saving time and resources in the long run. This change will enhance the quality of play and ensure that games and practices can proceed without delays caused by poor field conditions.
2. Extending and replacing the backstops at both fields is a practical solution to help keep foul balls within the field of play. This not only improves safety for players and spectators but also minimizes interruptions during games caused by retrieving stray balls. It demonstrates a commitment to creating a safer and more efficient playing environment for everyone involved.
3. Installing two new scoreboards at each of the Countryside fields adds another layer of professionalism and functionality to the facilities. Scoreboards are essential for keeping track of game progress, inning, score, and other important information. They enhance the overall game experience for players, coaches, and spectators, creating a more immersive and enjoyable atmosphere.

Association Proposed Need:

Expanding the EBA programming to accommodate the increasing number of younger players. Having two additional game-ready fields would indeed alleviate the pressure caused by weather constraints and provide more opportunities for practice and games, benefiting both players and coaches.

Installing scoreboards on these new fields would enhance the game experience and add a professional touch to the facilities. It would also facilitate better organization during matches and make it easier for players, coaches, and spectators to track the game progress.

With these improvements in place, Courtney field workload during the season could be significantly reduced, allowing for more games and practice. Additionally, having more quality fields available would likely give the EBA more options for hosting tournaments and continued growth in the program. It would also create an additional must-see facility that would compete with neighboring baseball associations.

It could also allow us as a community to keep more of our current families in the EBA association instead of having to look elsewhere for baseball opportunities at younger ages. This builds our community as a whole and strengthens our baseball program all the way up to the varsity level.

Association Proposed Funding:

Edina Baseball Association has proposed a donation to fund their request. Their contribution would come from sponsors, supporters, and players.