With the Texas Rangers bringing a Carolina League to town in 2017, Kinston officials have approved $1.65 million in upgrades to Grainger Stadium for 2017 and 2018.
The city has already made $250,000 in upgrades to the parking lot, grandstand, lighting and outfield wall. These new changes were triggered by the arrival of the new High A team. The first phase of improvements, costing $900,000, are due for the beginning of the 2017 season; the second is slated for the 2018 season. From the New Bern Sun-Journal:
“For the 2017 upcoming season we will be building a new concession stand on the third base line; we’re repainting the stadium itself, updating the field lighting and putting pads on the outfield walls for player safety,” [said Lenoir County Parks and Recreation Director Bill] Ellis.
The renovations will help with players’ safety, team necessities and give fans a memorable experience, Ellis said.
“We’re doing all new signage of the grand stand, updating the customer service area and restriping and resealing the parking lot,” he said.
Other projects include lighting and ceiling fans will be added to the grandstand.
Grainger Stadium was the long-time home of the Kinston Indians (High A; Carolina League). For a look at that ballpark’s history, check out Cradle of the Game, Mark Cryan’s history of baseball and ballparks in North Carolina.
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