The City of Tampa and Tampa Parks & Recreation Department are proud to announce a series of major renovations and improvements to the Belmont Heights Little League. These upgrades will provide a safe, modern, and inclusive environment for young players and fans to enjoy the great games of baseball and softball. These changes have also allowed Belmont Heights to officially kickstart its softball program and have its first-ever softball teams.
"At the City of Tampa, we believe in providing the best and most inclusive spaces for our children to play sports and grow," Mayor Jane Castor said. "Sports play a critical role in the development of our young people, teaching them teamwork, perseverance, and determination. The upgrades and renovations to the Belmont Heights Little League will provide a safe and inviting environment where children can develop not just their athletic abilities, but also valuable life skills that will serve them well beyond the diamond."
In March 2022, the league press box and concession building underwent an exterior renovation, including a new roof, fascia, and exterior woodwork, repairs to the stairway and storage area, and a fresh paint job.
In the same month, Tampa Parks & Recreation also upgraded the Gary Sheffield Infield with the removal of the old sod, laser grading of the infield, and the installation of new Bermuda turf, bases, and a pitcher's mound.
In December 2022, the Majors field was renovated and "skinned" to make it more inclusive and equitable for both boys and girls to participate. This renovation involved removing the infield and outfield turf, laser grading the entire field, and installing new Bermuda turf, a skinned infield play surface, new bases, foul poles, and a portable pitcher's mound.
Currently, the T-ball field is undergoing a complete renovation, including new dugouts, aluminum player benches, bleachers, and a spectator area, making the field accessible to people with disabilities.
The field is also receiving a new backstop and fencing, a customized windscreen, grading of the turf and clay area, and the addition of a new Bahia turf outfield, and new clay and bases. Additionally, the batting cages are being upgraded with new netting, batting mats, and fencing.
“Tampa Parks & Recreation is committed to providing the best possible facilities for the young athletes and fans of Belmont Heights Little League,” Tampa Parks & Recreation Director Sherisha Hills said. “These renovations and improvements are a testament to that commitment and will help to ensure that the league remains a vibrant and thriving part of the community for years to come.”
The total project cost is $193,050.