Ballpark idea

Dear editor:

There has been a good discussion about building a new baseball park, pro and con. It therefore seems a compromise suggestion would be very appropriate. In the place of the $7.5-$8.5 million park complex, let’s look at a more logical and affordable idea.

The land has been cleared, so it would be much easier and a lot less costly to build a three baseball field project, possibly in a diamond configuration, the three home plates in the center, each field facing outward around the compass at 120 degrees each, with restrooms/concession area in the middle space (or some other simple design based on the available space). This would still cost about $1.6 million for the dirt work, fencing, scoreboards, dugouts, bleachers and restrooms (only one or two fields would be fully lighted for night games) but this would be an excellent playing area for all to enjoy.

This cost estimate is based on “youth fields” at $400,000 each and lighting, $400,000, if needed. Remember, we are not talking about NCAA championship fields but a kid’s game area, especially if there can also be a soccer area.

Also, a 30-year bond note would not be needed (about seven years as compared to the recent bond issued by the Hot Springs Advertising and Promotion Commission for the science museum) and, once paid for, the A&P Commission could donate the area to the city as a park. Also, if the space allows, a couple of soccer fields would be a big plus for even more youngsters to enjoy the area. Does that sound more reasonable? Jim Pumphrey Garland County