New Haven little league fields get big upgrades after community push

NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH) — Little leaguers in New Haven are gearing up for an exciting season ahead as the city’s baseball facilities receive significant upgrades.

Just a year ago, concerns were raised about the condition of Beaver Pond Park’s fields, prompting coaches and parents to advocate for improvements.

Wayne Morrison, president of Walter Pop Smith Little League, recalls the challenges faced due to the deteriorating conditions.

“Balls did not roll like true baseballs, more like ping pongs,” said Morrison.

Volunteers and community leaders were instrumental in pushing for these upgrades, engaging in discussions with city officials to secure funding.

“It was a big fight, and I’m just proud to say that [renovations have] begun,” said Morrison.

The lineup of renovations includes reseeding grass and new infield clay, replacing old scoreboards in the outfields, changing the fencing along the backstops, and fixing the flooding inside the dugouts.

“It’s getting better,” said Steve Itkin, league board member and volunteer. “We’re almost there. In baseball terms, we’re between first and second base.”

New Haven’s commitment to investing in its parks extends beyond Walter Pop Smith Little League. The city plans to allocate $5 million from local, state, and federal funds for park upgrades citywide. The Walter Pop Smith project alone is estimated to cost around $350,000 and will be completed in two phases.

Gary Tinney, a dedicated league volunteer, said the completion can’t come soon enough.

“I’m sitting in a dugout where I coached over 20, 30 years ago, and it looks the same to me,” said Tinney. “So, that’s a bit concerning to say the least.”

He said it’s not only about investing money, but it’s about investing in the inner city.

“What do we have to do to make our place look like that dream field that many other communities have?” said Tinney.

While there is still work to be done, league members are optimistic about the future.

“If they complete what they say, I will say it’s a homerun,” said Morrison.

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