PROJECT
Mandan Park District was looking to make necessary facility updates to the Mandan Veterans Memorial Ballpark to provide better accommodations for athletes, extend the baseball season, and enhance the spectator viewing experience for youth baseball games. KLJ worked closely with the Mandan Park Board and Mandan Baseball Committee, which is comprised of booster club members and coaches, to define a project that met the customer’s intent and budget.
SOLUTION
KLJ provided survey, structural, electrical, and civil design services to develop a feasible plan for renovations that would meet the client’s needs to better serve community members who frequent the ballpark. Almost every aspect of the Mandan Veterans Memorial Ballpark was renovated with the exception of the grandstand, which was built in 2005. The grass and agri-lime field were replaced with a synthetic turf system, which extends the length of the playing season. Infrastructure improvements included renovating the locker rooms, umpire room, coach’s office, and storage spaces in addition to the dugout and bullpens. The new ballpark design also included an expanded seating area comprised of the grandstands with a lower level as well as additional wings with steel canopies at the first and third base lines, which were reconstructed over the new locker room roof system. A plaza was also built for additional spectator standing room.
A complex issue with the original ballpark was the lack of drainage. The field and the surrounding area are in the Heart River bottom which is extremely flat. KLJ was able to design a new drainage system that routed the building drains and the synthetic turf sub-drainage system into 18-inch storm sewer pipe that carried the stormwater to a retention pond approximately 750 feet south of the ballpark.
RESULTS
Mandan Park District has a clear list of strategic goals that guide their planning and prioritization. The successful renovation of Mandan Veterans Memorial Ballpark aligns with many of them. KLJ was able to devise a plan and schedule that allowed this material to be salvaged and replaced by the owner during construction to help meet their overall budget. The facility renovations extend the lifespan of the ballpark and contribute to an inviting atmosphere for all users.
