We have a first look at the renderings for the renovations at the renamed Fowler Park, the ballpark at the University of San Diego, on a job scheduled to begin at the end of the 2012 Toreros season.
Nestled into a natural amphitheater, the renovated ballpark’s signature feature will be a new Spanish Renaissance-style entry plaza that connects the ballpark with nearby campus architecture. The renovation also will bring the ballpark up to modern-day standards for both fan and student-athlete amenities. Overall seating for the ballpark will increase to 1,700, but the design will allow for future expansion up to 3,000 for NCAA playoff events.
Populous created five levels at the ballpark to incorporate necessary programmatic elements — an entry level with plaza space, a suite and press level, the main concourse, the Torero Zone and the team clubhouse. The clubhouse will feature ample space for coaches and student-athletes, a training room, equipment room, player lounge, expanded locker rooms, a display and reception area and added space for batting cages. Additionally, the field itself will be renovated and will feature a new batter’s eye, added field lighting, renovated practice tunnels and a new scoreboard with video capability.
“Our upgrades to Fowler Park are on par with the team’s growth,” said Pat Tangen, Populous project manager. “The new ballpark will give them an identity on campus along with a facility that will help them recruit top prospects and generate more interest in an up-and-coming program.”
The ballpark renovation is part of a $30 million project designed to upgrade athletic facilities at the university. It was launched with a gift from Ron and Alexis Fowler. The ballpark is currently known as Cunningham Stadium, and the Cunningham name will still apply to the playing field. It was named after former coach John Cunningham.
Renderings courtesy of Populous.
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