City of Grand Island: $5 Million Ryder Park Renovation Proposed

Grand Island, Neb. — During the Tuesday, March 26 Grand Island City Council meeting, the Grand Island Baseball Committee announced its intentions to help fund a $5 million renovation of Ryder Park.

Of that $5 million, the committee has committed itself to fundraising at least $1.75 million for the renovation, with a City commitment of $3.25 million. Discussion during the meeting suggested that funding may be able to come from the City’s food and beverage tax.

In a joint effort with Olsson Associates, the committee presented renderings that would turn Ryder Park into a multipurpose facility that would be able to accommodate not only baseball, but softball as well.

A primary concern from the committee is the playing surface of the current field at Ryder Park. Coaches, both former and current, addressed council about the playing conditions and their strong desire to replace the current dirt and grass field with artificial turf.

Officials also informed council of several upgrades which would include a new concession stand facility with bathrooms, new stadium lights and new bleachers to go alongside the current bleachers at the park.

The Council will now be discussing the potential approval of this proposed renovation and are expected to vote on the measure at a future meeting.