Butterfield Park Field #1 is once again ready to welcome athletes after a recent redevelopment project wrapped up. Updates to this particular field were unique, as it serves both collegiate and youth baseball, necessitating compliance with National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) standards.
In recent years, the District, Elmhurst University, and Elmhurst Youth Baseball worked together to improve the playing fields, dugouts, and bullpens. Building on these initiatives, several parts of the field were updated. Spectators will appreciate the new netting system, which was installed to better contain foul balls and enhance field visibility. An upgraded black vinyl fence now lines the perimeter, replacing the previous 30-year-old fence. Other enhancements include improved warning track material, new dugout facades, the relocation of a bullpen, and replacing the batting cage.
Funding for this project comes partially from a grant awarded by the State of Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO). The rest of the funds were provided jointly from the Park District and Elmhurst University.
