CSM Group is proud to announce that the company will serve as Kalamazoo Public Schools’ selected partner for the renovations of the baseball and softball fields at Kalamazoo Central High School, known as the Derek Jeter Field Complex.
The project – valued at $3.2 million – will provide completely renovated and reoriented fields, outfitted with new seating, new dugouts, and synthetic turf to increase player access.
Funding for this project was donated by the Turn 2 Foundation, the organization founded by Kalamazoo Central High School graduate and former New York Yankees player Derek Jeter.
“We are incredibly honored to be an integral part of this project, which will impact the future generations of athletes in Kalamazoo for years to come,” said Jim Feltch, president and chief executive officer of CSM Group. “Our team is inspired by the generous gift that the Turn 2 Foundation has bestowed upon Kalamazoo Public Schools and we look forward to bringing Derek Jeter’s vision to life.”
One of the key elements of the new fields will be a reorientation of their layouts, so the batters face the pitching mound in the northeast. This orientation will minimize the impact of low afternoon and evening sun angles on the players’ vision.
The baseball field will have a synthetic turf field with a new sub-base and drainage system, while the softball field will have a new clay infield and synthetic turf outfield with sub-base and drainage system.
Both fields will include:
- New elevated aluminum grandstand bleachers
- New pre-cast concrete dugouts
- New galvanized fencing backstop, and foul poles
- New press boxes
The project costs also cover a new clay infield and natural grass practice field, handicap-accessible restrooms, and handicap-accessible parking.
With an anticipated completion date of spring 2021, CSM Group will work closely with TowerPinkster to ensure that the athletic complex is completed on time and within budget in the safest manner possible.
.jpg)