Ballpark Informational Meeting Tonight: What You Should Know

In the past few weeks, professional baseball coming to Clawson has been the talk of the town. Tonight, residents get a chance to learn more about the plan and offer their ideas.

On July 26, David Martin of Summit Professional Baseball requesting use of the City Park baseball field for the Frontier League home games.

At 7 p.m. today there will be an informational meeting for residents to learn more about the project and provide feedback. The meeting will be in the community room. Before you head out to the meeting this evening, here are a few things you may want to know:

The Plan

Summit Professional Baseball would invest around $1 million in the project and doesn't plan to use any public tax dollars, Martin said. If the Planning Commission approves the proposition, Martin said Berkley-based Forsite Design would design the field. Upgrades would include improving lights, the field, fencing, locker rooms, food and concessions area and bleachers. Martin hopes to have the field ready for ball games for the 2012 season, beginnning in May.

Why Clawson?

Martin said Clawson offers the family friendly, neighborhood community he is seeking for a home field. "We feel Clawson is that all-American city that can host that all-American game," Martin said.

The Games

There would be 48 home games for next year's season and likely start around 6:30 p.m., Martin said. He plans for the revamped ballpark to be able to seat about 2,500 fans. The ballfield lights will have reflectors that shine them away from residential homes in the area, he said.

Parking

Parking spaces are available around the perimeter of City Park. Martin said he plans to work with residents near the park to determine whether parking will be permitted in the neighborhoods. He has also explored providing a shuttle service so fans can park in Clawson parking lots and be transported to and from the park.

Crowd Control

Martin plans to have security personnel and ushers at the games. He said he will collaborate with the Clawson police and fire departments to work out safety procedures.

Benefits to the City

The Frontier League games would bring money to the city with spectators, visiting fans and players buying from Clawson businesses, Martin said. Many residents agree that professional baseball could put a small town like Clawson on the map. 

The new ball park would also create seasonal and permanent jobs in Clawson, Martin said. Job openings would include the grounds crew, ushers, merchandise sales, ticket and concession stand workers and management.

Residents' Concerns

Some nearby residents have expressed concern about possible heavy traffic, loitering, parking and alcohol sales at the park. 

Check back with the Clawson Patch for coverage of tonight's informational meeting and reaction from residents.