News Release

MONCTON (GNB) – The provincial government is investing in the creation of an accessible baseball field in Moncton.

“This new field will be a welcomed addition for young baseball players with special needs in this region and the province, and will continue to promote active, healthy lifestyles,” said Social Development Minister Cathy Rogers.

Rogers spoke on behalf of Health Minister Victor Boudreau, who is also minister responsible for the Regional Development Corporation.

“With this new accessible ball field, we are improving an existing facility while creating a better experience for all,” said Moncton Mayor George LeBlanc. “This is an exciting project for Moncton as it will help remove barriers for people with disabilities who want to enjoy an active lifestyle playing baseball.”

The total project cost is $500,000 split equally between the Regional Development Corporation, the City of Moncton and the Greater Moncton Field of Dreams Baseball Program. Each partner is investing $167,000 to be used to renovate an existing ball field at the CN Sportplexe.

“Thanks to the Province of New Brunswick and the City of Moncton for supporting our dreams of providing a safe and accessible playing field for athletes with disabilities,” said Charline Allain Godin, organizer from the program. “This will be the only field of its kind in Atlantic Canada.”

The field will be constructed of artificial turf. The dugouts will be replaced with expanded, accessible dugouts. The bleachers will be replaced with expanded bleachers. Improvements will be made outside of the field, including adding a designated drop-off section and accessible parking close to the new field, a paved trail to link the washrooms, the parking and the field together and decorative banner poles. The field is anticipated to open during the fall season of 2016.