Under an agreement announced Wednesday, Friends University in Wichita, Kan., will make improvements to the city's West Side Athletic Field in exchange for access to the field for baseball practices, games and potential tournaments, as well as clinics, leagues and athletic activities for all ages.
As reported by CBS affiliate KWCH, Friends University will invest $300,000 into the installation of synthetic turf on the infield.
The West Side Athletic Field is currently used May through July for city summer league baseball, March through May for USD 259 high school baseball games and for occasional overflow games to support a South Lakes weekend tournament. Friends University’s use of the field will not interfere with any of the current uses.
"We are very excited about this new partnership with the City of Wichita,” said Friends University athletic director Rob Ramseyer. “West Side Athletic Field is close to Friends, so it’s a very convenient field for games and practices. Having artificial turf will allow us to play and schedule our tournaments and games without as much worry about the Kansas weather. And the more attractive we make our facilities, the greater our opportunities become to fulfill our mission.”
“This is a win-win for the community,” said Wichita mayor Jeff Longwell. “We’re thrilled to work with Friends University to provide a space for their collegiate games and activities, and are thankful for their investment back into the West Side Athletic Field.”
Added Wichita Park and Recreation director Troy Houtman, “City of Wichita Park and Recreation is a leading provider of quality-of-life amenities and creating community through people, parks and programs. We’re happy to provide a space for Friends University and create positive memories for the students, faculty, staff and fans through this amazing partnership.”
