GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Construction is underway at LMCU Ballpark on phase one of a multi-year construction plan, upgrading the place the West Michigan Whitecaps have called home for three decades.
"We wanted to make sure that this is going to be good for the next 30 seasons," said Jim Jarecki, the team's Vice President and General Manager.
Phase one of the project is on the third base side, a new home for both the team and the fans.
"How do you keep this ballpark fresh? How do you shine it up?" said Jarecki.
At the concourse level, new batting tunnels with windows to get fans a behind-the-scenes look.
"Fans will be able to watch the Whitecaps take some swings in the batting tunnel," he said.
Venturing further into the new section takes you to the team's new clubhouse, which will be double the size of the current one. Other upgraded amenities for the players include a new weight room and kitchen area.
Jarecki said with players in the park for sometimes 12 hours at a time on game days, they want to provide a home away from home.
"There's gonna be a lot of accommodations for these guys," he said.
Up on the second level, a new area for fans, as well, that will offer dining with a view.
"Fans are also going to be able to oversee the ballpark from the third base side, which they've never been able to see before," said Jarecki.
He said the upgrades are designed to both keep long-time fans happy and bring a new generation into the ballpark.
"We want to be the beacon of the community and make sure that, you know, when you come out here, you say, hey, I remember when, but I also see now I get to experience the new aspects of what the ballpark is," said Jarecki.
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