Capital Hill Ballfield renovation close to completion

The Division of Parks and Recreation, which is under the Department of Lands and Natural Resources, is nearing completion of the renovation at the Capital Hill Ballfield.

On Wednesday, Division of Parks and Recreation director Michael Cruz spoke with Saipan Tribune a little bit more about the project.

Cruz shared that the facelift began a month ago, with the main goal to replace the deteriorating fencing around the field.

He said that the old fence had served nearly two decades already and that due to the corrosion on the fence and several gaping holes, it needed to be completely replaced. He said Parks & Rec was grateful that they were able to receive funding to do just that.

He shared his gratitude for Rep. Joel Camacho (Ind-Saipan) and the administration of Gov. Arnold I. Palacios for supporting the endeavor, especially helping them get the funding to do the renovation.

Cruz shared that $40,000 was allocated for the field’s renovation and that the Department of Public Works was spearheading the whole renovation, including getting contractors. He said as for the basketball court on the premises, Atkins Kroll had sponsored to fix it up. He also shared that Parks & Rec is also working with a group using the adjacent tennis court as they shared plans to fix it up as well.

As for the field, he shared that they have received offers from certain agencies to paint the dugouts, but it was still not confirmed yet. He said their main renovation should be completed on July 15, 2024.

“It’s playable but we just have to make sure we give the contractors a chance to finish the project. We can use it for now because there is a T-ball tourney going on now and they want to use the field, but we have to make sure that it’s safety first, and remove all the materials and equipment before they can utilize the field.”

Cruz said he can’t wait for the Capital Hill Ballfield to be fully playable again.

“That’s why I got our stuff here. We’re cutting the grass and trying to get it ready so when it’s done, we can immediately start utilizing it. This place is not only for the youth in our community, but there are also softball tournaments for medical fundraisers done here as well as high school and village tournaments. So really, this field is essential for folks on the island.”