In the News

Springfield Mayor Sarno, Congressman Richard Neal, and other city leaders gathered at Forest Park to announce some major renovations.

Renovations to the Walker Memorial Grandstand inside of Forest Park come after Congressman Richard Neal secured $3 million of federal funding for the first phase of redevelopment of the Forest Park Horticulture Master Plan. Construction is underway and the project manager says they have been working on the design and securing funds for about 18 months.

Tom Ashe says it’s important to keep up with the park and provide a quality of life for residents, “It’s important that we have a grandstand and ball field for kids to play on particularly the older kids in high school, and legion, and even in college. We hope this becomes a huge attraction for that age range.”

Mayor Sarno states, “Having played more than a few games here as an old catcher that ‘wore the tools of ignorance,’ whether it was in the sandlots, high school, or legion ball, it was a big deal ‘you felt like you were playing in the big leagues!’ Parks Director Tom Ashe and I are grateful for the efforts of Congressman Neal, who once a mayor always the heart of a mayor, in securing these vital federal grant funds. We are very excited to bring some life back to this iconic stadium and are looking forward to seeing some spring ball games here next year. This stadium is big part of Springfield history and we will proudly honor legendary sports columnist Garry Brown here too.”

Mayor Sarno continued, “I would also like to thank retired former Parks Director Patrick Sullivan for his vision and leadership in the development of our Forest Park Horticulture Master Plan. This project illustrates the importance of having a master plan ready so when grants do become available, we are ready to participate in the application process. Shout out and thank you to Pete Garvey and the Capital Asset team for keeping the ball rolling on this. The improvements will be a welcome addition to Forest Park and will serve the residents of Springfield and surrounding communities, and draw in visitors too.”

“For anyone that grew up playing baseball in western Massachusetts, they have fond memories of playing at Walker Stadium. Today marks a significant day not only for the City of Springfield, but for all residents of the Pioneer Valley who enjoy one of the city’s beloved treasures – Forest Park,” said Congressman Neal. “As we commemorate the groundbreaking for the rehabilitation of Walker Grandstand, we are reminded of the important role that green spaces play in urban living. I applaud Mayor Sarno and the city’s dedicated team at the Parks Department, all of whom are great stewards of our parks system. I am proud to have secured $3 million in federal funding to support this project, and I will continue working with the city to pursue additional funding opportunities.”

Mayor Sarno, Congressman Neal, and City Officials share updates on Walker Memorial Grandstand Enhancements at Forest Park (Courtesy of Mayor Sarno’s Office)

The new and improved space will allow athletes and other residents in the community to come out and enjoy it. City and state officials say these renovations will help to modernize the Walker stadium facility at Forest Park bringing in some new seating, restrooms, and a concession area while also creating a space where many baseball games can be on the field.

This project is expected to be completed by April.