The Mount Vernon City Council has authorized Safety-Service Director Tanner Salyers to seek bids for the initial phase of a Memorial Park improvements project. This decision was made during the council's meeting on November 24.
Assistant City Engineer Quentin Platt explained the project's scope, stating, "The plan is to take the three fields, fields one, two and three, and we would be removing them entirely and rebuilding brand new fields for our brand new concession stand." Platt further elaborated that a new concession stand will be constructed as part of the improvements.
According to Platt, this first phase aligns with the parks master plan aimed at enhancing field usability primarily for youth softball players. The design will feature a clover pattern with fields surrounding a central concession stand. Currently, three fields are planned, while a fourth field's site would encroach upon existing tennis courts.
Platt indicated that upon consulting with the city's professional field consultant about starting field construction, it was advised to prioritize building concession stands to ensure desired field quality. These stands are expected to be ready by opening day in 2026. Post-spring ball season, plans will be developed for fall ball arrangements using alternative local fields or existing varsity and junior varsity facilities. The city's recreation director is coordinating with the youth softball league on these logistics.
Field three may undergo fence relocation before constructing new fields. The concession stand will be built on an elevated grade to address drainage issues that currently cause water accumulation and disrupt play during rain events.
Platt noted that they would forego constructing a traditional two-story announcer's booth due to building code requirements and ADA accessibility concerns. Instead, wireless Bluetooth speakers and microphones will facilitate game announcements from any location near the fields. Additionally, staff will explore costs associated with installing turf infields to mitigate rain-related disruptions and consider potential donors for funding this aspect of the project at Council member Mel Severns' request.
