A new Kingsport Mets (Rookie; Appalachian League) ballpark could be in the works, as a plan to construct a new downtown facility is being floated.
A proposed new Kingsport ballpark would be built at Brickyard Park at a cost that city officials are estimating at $12 million, and be planned as part of the One Kingsport initiate. The 3,500-to-4,500-seat facility would become the home of the Mets and sport a field turf playing surface, allowing it to host non-Mets events, including as concerts, festivals, and amateur baseball.
Discussions appear to be very much in the early stages at this point, but the concept was considered during a Tuesday meeting of the Board of Mayor and Alderman (BMA). More from the Kingsport Times-News:
The stadium would have artificial turf and be used not only for minor league baseball, but other events as well, such as concerts, festivals and by local baseball teams and leagues. If the BMA were to move forward with such a project, it would take the place of the outdoor venue project. The existing stadium off Stone Drive would remain and be used by the city’s parks and recreation department.
Mayor John Clark said such a project “is going to take courage” and be revolutionary for Kingsport and the region.
What’s next is for city staff to provide the BMA with an in-depth analysis on a downtown baseball stadium, further analysis of the cost of construction, maintenance and operational expenses. McCartt said he would like for the BMA to have those numbers by the end of the year.
The Mets currently play at Hunter Wright Stadium.