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Erie Takes Action on UPMC Park Grant

Erie SeaWolves logo

On Wednesday, the Erie City Council approved two resolutions relating to a $12 million state grant for renovations to UPMC Park, home of the Erie SeaWolves (Class AA; Eastern League). 

Announced by Pennsylvania governor Tom Wolf in mid-August, the $12 million state grant had been targeted by local officials as a potential funding source for UPMC Park upgrades. The slate of improvements to the ballpark on tap would address both team and fan amenities, helping to modernize a facility that first opened in 1995.

Wednesday’s actions by the city council were procedural in nature, but the votes were crucial in allowing some necessary steps in the process to move forward. More from GoErie.com:

The first resolution allows Mayor Joe Schember’s administration to submit a business plan to the state, along with Erie Events, for the project. The resolution also allows the city to “execute all documents to facilitate and assist in submission of materials required by the state for this project.”

The second resolution approved by council signs off on the city and Erie Events working together, where necessary, to complete the project. Erie Events manages the ballpark, which is home to the SeaWolves, a Detroit Tigers affiliate that plays in the Double-A Eastern League.

Both resolutions were passed unanimously by the seven-member panel without discussion.

The city of Erie first requested state funding for ballpark repairs in 2014. The project will include a new field and scoreboard, and renovations to concession stands, restrooms, corporate suites, and commissary areas. The grant application also calls for a “new structure” that would be “uniquely integrated” between UPMC Park and the adjacent Erie Insurance Arena.

UPMC Park was originally known as Jerry Uht Park when it opened in 1995. The SeaWolves were members of the Short Season A New York-Penn League at the time, with Double-A action arriving to Erie in 1999.

RELATED STORIES: $12M for UPMC Park Renovations Approved by StateOfficials Working to Address UPMC Park ConditionsTigers Hope for UPMC Park UpgradesSeaWolves Offer 10-Year Lease Extension If Ballpark Improvements Are Funded;More Funds Requested for UPMC Park Renovation DesignsSeaWolves Make the Case for UPMC Park UpgradesUPMC Park Renovations Pitched by SeaWolves Ownership

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