Bradenton breaks ground on City Park project near LECOM Park

Florida Construction News staff writer

The city of Bradenton marked the start of construction Tuesday on City Park, a multi-phase development officials say will expand recreational opportunities and support long-term revitalization around LECOM Park.

A groundbreaking ceremony was held at 11:45 a.m. at the project site adjacent to LECOM Park, 1511 Ninth St. W.Phase 1 of the project includes construction of a new baseball field and related site improvements. City officials say the work represents the first step in a broader vision for City Park that could eventually include additional recreational space, youth programs, educational opportunities and community partnerships.

The site’s name honours City Park Field, where baseball was played more than a century ago.

Officials said the project is the result of collaboration among the city, Manatee County, the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, the School District of Manatee County, the Manatee Police Athletic League and the Pittsburgh Pirates organization, along with other community partners. State and federal funding also contributed to the project, including support secured with assistance from U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan.Mayor Gene Brown said the project is intended to serve both recreational and community development goals.

“City Park is about more than the addition of a baseball field,” Brown said. “This project has been years in the making, and we’re excited to see it move forward. We’re investing in a place where families can gather, young people can play and learn, and residents can enjoy new recreational opportunities. It’s also an important step in strengthening the connections between our neighborhoods, downtown, and the Riverwalk.”

Officials said additional phases of the project will be determined as planning continues, with a focus on expanding access to recreation and strengthening community programming in the surrounding area.