State Senator James Seward visited Doubleday Field in Cooperstown yesterday to announce a special New York State grant for $1 million which he secured to help fund a major renovation project at the ballpark.

According to a press release, Seward says this major renovation project will preserve the stadium’s historic character while adding amenities that will draw more fans and improve playing conditions. The work includes rebuilding the third base bleachers, making improvements to the field, museum space in the grandstand and a new multi-purpose building that will have office space, a press box and public space for event rental. The total project cost is estimated at $5.8 million.

Village of Cooperstown Mayor Ellen Tillapaugh, Friends of Doubleday Field President Jeff Katz, and other local officials joined Senator Seward for the announcement. The Village of Cooperstown became the owner of Doubleday Field in September 1923.

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