Daytona Beach, FL - The Daytona Beach City Commission (DBCC) unanimously approved a request from Public Works to allow the City Manager to apply for a grant that would help pay for the replacement of the turf at Jackie Robinson Ballpark.
Earlier Reporting:
The Daytona Beach City Commission (DBCC) will soon decide whether or not to submit an application for a grant to fund the installation of new turf at Jackie Robinson Ballpark, which will bring the field up to Minor League Baseball (MiLB) standards.
According to city records, Public Works is asking the commission to authorize the City Manager to submit a Historical Preservation/Special Category Grant application for up to $500,000 to replace the stadium's turf. Public Works asks that if the grant is awarded, that the commission allows the City Manger to accept the grant. MiLB requires all teams to provide a field surface without any defects or trip hazards that could potentially impede gameplay or endanger player safety.
The replacement of the turf will bring the field up to MiLB standards. The new turf will cost an estimated $861,333, however, the remaining funds will be covered by a $355,000 Racing and Recreational Facilities District grant that has already been awarded to the city. Public Works indicates that if the city were to be awarded the $500,000 grant, it would be obligated to match at least $250,000 as well.
The city says that artificial turf will continue to be used because it is considered to be superior to sod in that it can better withstand continuous use and wear and tear. Should the commission vote to move on with the project, Public Works expects the new turf to be installed in October or November of 2019.
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