Construction Underway for McElroy Park Field Renovations in Jamestown

Construction season has never seemed to inconvenience baseball season in Jamestown, but this year is different. After two years of fundraising and planning, the McElroy Park field renovations are finally underway. Jamestown High School activities director Jim Roaldson expressed the need for updating the facilities, acknowledging the challenge of working on the fields during the playing season.

With 91 athletes between the Blue Jay and University of Jamestown programs, adjustments have been made to accommodate the construction. The majority of practices for the high school team will not be held at the facility, with limited usage of Jack Brown Stadium due to scheduling conflicts.

Despite the challenges, both teams are making the best of the situation. The Blue Jays have only four home games scheduled at Jack Brown Stadium, with the first game set for April 12 against Minot. Head coach Jack Bowman and his assistants have been utilizing alternative spaces for practices, ensuring the team stays prepared.

The first phase of construction includes two feature fields with turf infields, a parking lot, concessions, and restrooms building, with completion expected by fall 2024. While the teams face limitations during this construction period, they are optimistic about the long-term benefits the renovations will bring.

Both the high school and college teams are determined to make it work, utilizing indoor facilities and alternative fields for practices. Communication and collaboration are key as they navigate the challenges ahead. Despite the disruptions, the teams are focused on a successful season and are looking forward to the improvements that the renovations will bring to the baseball community in Jamestown.