It’s “Batter up!” for the ballpark improvement project at Dallas Jones and Grandview Parks in Falls City.
The Falls City Council got a positive report from the Ballpark Improvement Committee during Monday night’s meeting. Rod Vandeberg, who has helped spearhead the effort to raise the nearly $1.8 million needed for the project, said has been one of the most satisfying experiences he’s had – despite some initial reservations whether they could reach their goal. (play audio :49)
Of the one million 871-thousand dollar total, Vandeberg says about 10 percent – or a little more than $201,000 – is in the form of gifts paid up front. The bulk of the total – about 90 percent – is in the form of gifts made in two, three, four, and five-year pledges. An estimated 323 people donated money to the project.
In his prepared remarks, Vandeberg thanked a few of the major donors to the project, the City of Falls City for it’s in-kind contribution, and the community for its support. He noted a gift from Falls City natives Merle and Trula Bachman was instrumental in pushing them over the top of their goal.
The committee is continuing to apply for grants, and Vandeberg said he hopes to be able to use any remaining funds to set up an endowment fund to help with future maintenance of the complex.
Renee Bauer has been helping the Ballpark Improvement Committee apply for grants. She provided an update Monday night. (play audio :30)
Vandeberg also thanked members of the Ballpark Improvement Committee – Chairman Brian Poppe, Kevin Malone, Kory Huppert, Cindy Scott, and Rebecca Blakely, along with ex-officio member Marlen Luff.
The firm Turf Solutions Group of Peoria, Illinois, has been hired to design and construct the field. Vandeberg said the planning and engineering process is underway. Plans are to shorten the Summer Rec season this year and begin construction around July 1st, with the new ball fields in place by the end of this year.
MOST VIEWED STORIES
Three former Atchison Co employees arrested on felonies
One hospitalized, one jailed, after Atchison attack
Fentanyl find nets four in two Atchison cases
Services set for Effingham woman killed in crash
Barricaded fugitive arrested in Jackson County
Two file to challenge local legislator
Fatal Atchison apt fire investigation continues
Support sought for fire ravaged family
USD 415 board select new member
Four injured in Richardson Co rollover crash
U.S. 36 work in Doniphan Co to impact motorists
Results from SE Nebraska contested Primary Elections
Date set for signals switch at Hiawatha intersection
Armed felon found, arrested, in Jackson Co
Flags to fly half staff Wednesday across KS
State Board approves land transfer agreements
Memorial Day enforcement hits KS roads
LATEST STORIES
Four injured in Richardson Co rollover crash
Tuition increase by KU, others in state
KS grad requirements updated after two decades.
Fentanyl find nets four in two Atchison cases
Armed felon found, arrested, in Jackson Co
Support sought for fire ravaged family
Potts first to file for Sheriff's seat in Atchison Co
Senator Slama won't endorse candidate in legislative race
Local author brings "Broken and Chained" to Falls City Saturday
RELATED STORIES
City and County to discuss combined dispatch center
Waterfall project approved by Falls City Council
Falls City Council denies truck parking request
Falls City Council organizes for 2020
Falls City making progress on nuisance properties
Neighbors bring complaints to City Council
Falls City Council updated on park projects
Falls City utility rate increases gain first round approval