KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — It will be a little longer before Kalamazoo Central High School can enjoy some new and improved baseball and softball fields.
On May 1st it was announced that the renovations, originally slated for spring 2020, are now being rescheduled for 2021, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The project is thanks to local alumnus and professional baseball player Derek Jeter. Last July, his Turn 2 Foundation announced that they would fund a 3.2-million dollar project that will provide new and improved synthetic turf fields as well as brand new seating, press boxes, dugouts, and more, located at the Derek Jeter Field Complex.
“This is an incredibly personal project for me as I have so many memories of playing on these fields,” said Jeter. “While we are disappointed to have to delay renovations, the safety of the entire community is paramount.”
Interim superintendent of Kalamazoo Public Schools Gary Start said in a written statement, “Last summer, none of us could have imagined experiencing a pandemic when we announced this exciting project for Kalamazoo Central High School. Although it is disappointing to have to delay the project, it is the only option at this point. We are grateful to Derek and Sharlee Jeter and to the Turn 2 Foundation for their continued support of KPS. We look forward to the day when the first pitch is thrown on the new field. It will be worth the wait.”
