11-02-2010 Recovery Zone bond may fund Coveleski improvements

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.lL T~' PRACF. ~,1 T~ Office of the Mayor NEWS RELEASE November 2, 2010 1:45 p.m. Recovery Zone bond may fund Coveleski improvements Contact: Mikki Dobski, Director of Communications & Special Projects, 235-5855 or 876-1564 or Don Inks, Director of Economic Development, 235-9371 The City of South Bend has taken steps to fund improvements to 23-year-old Stanley Coveleski Regional Stadium in order to bring the facility into compliance with league standards, broaden its potential use and spur on private investment in its vicinity. The South Bend Redevelopment Commission voted 4-0 today (Nov. 2) to pursue a ~9.6- million upgrade to the downtown ballpark primarily with a 54.9-million federal Recovery Zone Economic Development bond. These funds are made available at low interests rates through the federal stimulus program. The Redevelopment Commission approved a preliminary bond resolution, authorizing issuance of the bond. The South Bend Common Council on Nov. 8 will review the proposal, which requires approval before the Recovery Zone option expires at year's end. Final Redevelopment Commission action would take place Nov. 19 with a public hearing and final approval at the Nov. 22 Council meeting. The improvements, most of which would be completed by July 4, 2011, include: ^ A new centerfield entrance, ticket office and concessions area. ^ An expanded concourse with 360-degree seating. ^ Basic facility upgrades to the scoreboard, sound system, lights, mechanical systems, restrooms and food-service areas. ^ Major overhaul of the field drainage system with a new artificial turf field. ^ Upgraded fan amenities including a picnic area, Kids Zone and splash pad, new concourse-level suites, a left field home run area and a refurbished Upper Deck area. ^ Renovated dugouts and locker rooms for player safety and a new training facility. ^ Anew team store in the renovated B'Nai Yisrael (Sons of Israel) Synagogue. "As Coveleski Stadium approaches its 25th anniversary, we need to reinvest in this landmark facility to remain in compliance with league standards and to care for a premiere City facility," said Mayor Stephen J. Luecke. "But these renovations also will