A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held Monday at three park facilities recognizing the reopening of the Alvin McBean Sports Complex, Joseph Aubain Ballpark, and Kirwan Terrace Ballpark on St. Thomas.
Gov. Albert Bryan Jr, Sports, Parks and Recreation Department Commissioner Calvert A. White, Office of Disaster Recovery Director Adrienne L. Williams-Octalien, staff members and campers were in attendance, according to the press release.
The recreational facilities have undergone extensive upgrades over the last year to enhance community access and enjoyment. These facilities serve as cornerstones in our community and are known to host athletic tournaments, leagues, and events, the press release stated.
“These new renovations will restore that sense of community, bringing together athletes and spectators of all ages,” said White.
At the Joseph “Frenchtown” Aubain Ballpark, over $515K in upgrades were completed, including new perimeter and batting cage fencing, enhanced safety measures, and aesthetics. There is also a new LED lighting system, ADA-compliant bleachers, and a scoreboard, the release stated.
Kirwan Terrace Ballpark also obtained a new scoreboard, LED lighting system, and exterior fencing. Spectators will notice new galvanized roofing over the concession area and bleachers for a total project cost of approximately $800K. At the Alvin McBean Sports Complex, over $858K was expended to restore and enhance the concession area, including new tiles, windows, and freshly painted walls. The ballpark now has a modern LED Lighting system in addition to new bleachers, a scoreboard, and perimeter fencing, it said.
The Sports, Parks, and Recreation Department acknowledges Custom Builders and Caribbean Contracting for their efforts in reconstructing our facilities as well as FEMA and ODR for their dedication to ensuring the completion of these facilities and all DSPR projects territory-wide, the release stated.
“We are thrilled to see these facilities restored and returned to the community for their intended purposes,” said White. He also highlighted ongoing efforts, “While we celebrate these milestones, our work continues. We await FEMA approvals to finalize the renovations at Reinholdt Jackson on St. Croix. Additionally, we have resumed work on the dugouts and LED lights at DC Canegata Ballpark following recent approvals.”
The commissioner further outlined upcoming projects, “With the restart of construction at the Vincent Mason Pool last week and our commitment to completing the big field at the Paul E. Joseph Stadium by the end of the year, we are optimistic about the future.”
“Being able to enjoy several of our territory’s recently rejuvenated parks today, along with a host of excited young Virgin Islanders, was a delight. I want to thank our federal partners for their tremendous support. Parks provide a safe space for our young and not-so-young to pursue healthy lifestyles – a goal wholeheartedly embraced by my administration,” Bryan remarked.
For information on facilities and hours of operation, please call the Department of Sports, Parks, and Recreation at 340-774-0255.
