Visitors to the Salt Creek Park softball field will soon have a new way to practice their swing, as the Park Board approved the installation of batting cages in the park at the February 24 Park Board Meeting.
The softball field at Salt Creek Park is used by Elmhurst College's softball team and the Elmhurst Youth Baseball organization. In 2016, representatives from Elmhurst Youth Baseball approached the Park District and Elmhurst College about adding batting cages to the existing bullpen area. The cages would serve as a warm-up area for batters and pitchers during games, but will also be open to the public.
As part of the agreement, each representative entity will be responsible for one-third of the cost of the cages. The Park District will be responsible for coordinating the project and maintenance of the cages.
The scope of the project will include the installation of two batting cage tunnels with upright supports and netting within the footprint of the existing bullpen area. The project was approved at the amount of $20,500, with additional amenities including pitcher’s safety screens, batter’s boxes and backstop padding approved at the amount of $4,100. Based on the agreement, the Park District will be responsible for one-third of the project, equating to $8,200.
