Newnan, GA officials are considering a proposed ballpark that would host a summer-collegiate Coastal Plain League team and other events, while anchoring a mixed-use development.
The local group Newnan Grand Slam LLC approached the city in the fall with the proposal. Under the current plans, the ballpark would be constructed on land east of Interstate-85 and host a CPL team, along with a slate of offerings that includes other sporting events, festivals, and concerts. Also involved in the plan is Atlanta-based RCS Productions, which would play a role in helping to bring concerts to the venue. In addition, the ballpark would be located adjacent to a proposed mixed-use development that would be constructed by a developer and include a slate of retail and residential space.
Funding for the venue–billed for now as the The NEST (Newnan Entertainment and Sports District)–would be obtained through the Newnan Development Authority, with the city receiving lease payments. The venue could be completed as early as the spring of 2021, though the proposal is not final and is the subject of public meetings scheduled this week for Tuesday and Thursday. More from the Newnan Times-Herald:
“It aligns with a brewery, the Coastal Plains League, the use of the property and the opportunity it affords for enhancing the quality of life for residents and private investment,” Assistant City Manager Hasco Craver said.
The city owns the dirt, handles the construction and owns the building, but that’s where it starts and ends, according to Craver. Newnan Grand Slam LLC would contract with baseball team owners, concert planners, special event planners, breweries and restaurants.
A “Mini Battery” – similar to The Battery at SunTrust Park – would occupy the property adjacent to the facility, and would house a mixture of residential and retail.
The facility would be able to handle 2,500 occupants in fixed seating, but could handle even more if the situation arose.
Newnan is located in Metro Atlanta, roughly 40 miles southwest of Atlanta. The CPL currently features two Georgia-based teams in the Macon Bacon and Savannah Bananas.
Renderings courtesy City of Newnan/Office of Communications.
