Work progresses on the new Winston-Salem ballpark, with sod laid this week in anticipation of a April 13 opener.
It's always a little unnerving to predict success on a project that's seen so many problems and setbacks, but the laying of sod at BB&T Ballpark, the new home of the Winston-Salem Dash (High Class A; Carolina League), is a solid sign the ballpark will indeed be ready for an April 13 opening.
True, there's been little indication that the ballpark wouldn't open on time since the city took over ownership; construction has been a relatively smooth process, according to folks close to the project. And while the area around the ballpark will still be a little rough around the edges, the actual ballpark itself is in decent shape.
This week sees the installation of Bermuda turf, one of those final steps that will manage to transform the entire look of the place. The team has moved into its offices, and other ballpark work is happening.
But the Dash face a pretty steep challenge for 2010. Opening a year late and under some bad circumstances certainly has generated some apprehension in the local community; Opening Day is not sold out, as the Dash choose to tie that night solely to season-ticket sales. (We're guessing that will change by April 5 or so.) Right now the Dash could use the positive press generated by a ballpark opening as a needed shot in the arm.
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