Plans Being Made For Softball Complex In/Around: North Division Y
The Spokane Parks Department and a non-profit sports association are making plans to transform old sewage lagoons near the North Division Y into a softball complex that could attract national tournaments.
If the proposal comes to fruition there would be six regulation softball fields, concessions stands, 300 paved parking spots, and batting cages behind the Red Barn on Newport Highway. The area is bordered by Dakota and Colton streets, Holland Road and Maxine Avenue.
A long-term lease for the land has already been approved by the Park Board, but action must also be taken by the City Council.
The Spokane Metro Softball Association plans to spend $2 million on the project with about 25 percent coming from increased fees to those playing city leagues. Other money would come from private donors, fundraising and possibly a share of the city’s hotel/motel tax.
“Teams can come from New York, Florida, across the country,” said Dalsanders. “This is rally going to be a first-class complex.”City parks
officials say they recognize the need for more softball fields and say the development would help pull games from other parks, which would open those areas up for soccer and other events.
The city would retain four acres at the southwest corner of the property for a neighborhood park and playground.
The softball association hopes to begin construction on the project by next spring.
Among the amenities being proposed:
State of the art field lighting.
Full concession stands but no alcohol except by special permit at major tournaments.
Air conditioned press boxes.
Nine automated batting cages.
Office building for the softball association.
Backers of the project have held one neighborhood meeting to discuss concerns about noise and lighting. Other meetings will be held as well, said Taylor Bressler, Parks Department maintenance manager.
“It’s a pretty brave project,” said Bressler, “but our department has dealt with some miracles over time - look at the Centennial Trail.”