Camden, NJ’s Campbell’s Field is closer to coming down, as officials are seeking bids to demolish the ballpark.
Campbell’s Field opened in 2001, and was home to the Camden Riversharks (independent; Atlantic League) through the 2015 season. The ballpark was used for college ball—the Division III Rutgers–Camden–through this spring, but unoccupied by pro ball following the departure of the Riversharks. There was an effort to move a NY-Penn League team into the facility, but financial issues in raising the ballpark to MiLB standards and reported opposition from the Philadelphia Phillies killed that plan.
It has been expected that the ballpark will be torn down, allowing for the site to be redeveloped into a sports complex. That process is moving forward, as the Camden County Improvement Authority is soliciting bids for a Campbell’s Field demolition. More from the AP:
The Camden County Improvement Authority is seeking bids for demolition of the cozy brick stadium, built only 17 years ago in a bid to boost tourism in the city….
The ballpark, which will make way for a city-owned athletic complex, isn’t looking too good these days.
A sheet of plywood covers a shattered window near the main entrance. Flattened cardboard on a bench and a pillow on the ground suggest some people are finding a home there.
Campbell’s Field is currently included on our Endangered Ballparks list.
RELATED STORIES: Campbell’s Field Inching Closer to Demolition; Campbell’s Field Slated for Demolition: Officials; Camden Still Without Professional Baseball; Camden Riversharks close up shop; Camden in the midst of baseball intrigue