ST. CROIX— Amidst high anticipation, government officials and summer camp participants celebrated with ribbon-cutting ceremonies Monday on St. Thomas the official reopening of three recreational centers — Alvin McBean Sports Complex, Joseph Aubain Ballpark, and Kirwan Terrace Ballpark, according to a Department of Sports, Parks and Recreation press release.
The recreational facilities have recently undergone more than $2 million in upgrades, greatly enhancing the community's enjoyment and accessibility, the release stated. These improved facilities serve as valuable resources for annual post-athletic leagues, tournaments, and events.
Sports, Parks and Recreation Commissioner Calvert White said the upgrades will positively impact the community.
“These new renovations will restore that sense of community, bringing together athletes and spectators of all ages,” White said in a statement.
The Joseph Aubain Ballpark in Frenchtown has undergone more than $515,000 in upgrades, including new perimeter and batting cage fencing, enhanced safety measures, and improved aesthetics. A new LED lighting system was installed along with a brand-new scoreboard, and bleachers that comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
The Kirwan Terrace Ballpark has also received upgrades, including a new scoreboard, LED lighting system, and exterior fencing. Spectators will also notice new galvanized roofing over the concession area and bleachers, with the total project cost amounting to approximately $800,000.
Finally, Governor Albert Bryan Jr. has invested more than $858,000 in restoring and enhancing the Alvin McBean Sports Complex. Upgrades were made to the concession area, which now boasts new tiles, windows, and freshly-painted walls. The ballpark now sports a modern LED lighting system, bleachers, scoreboard, and perimeter fencing.
“Being able to enjoy several of our territory’s recently-rejuvenated parks today, along with a host of excited young Virgin Islanders, was a delight,” Bryan said in a statement. “I want to thank our federal partners for their tremendous support. Parks provide a safe space for our young and not so young to pursue healthy lifestyles — a goal wholeheartedly embraced by my administration.”
The Department of Sports, Parks, and Recreation acknowledged Custom Builders and Caribbean Contracting for their efforts in reconstructing the facilities. Bryan offered additional thanks to the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Office of Disaster Recovery for their steadfast dedication to ensuring the completion of all these facilities and all the DSPR projects territory wide.
“We are thrilled to see these facilities restored and returned to the community for their intended purposes,” White said.
White also highlighted ongoing efforts.
“While we celebrate these milestones, our work continues,” he said. “We await FEMA approvals to finalize the renovations at Reinholdt Jackson on St. Croix. Additionally, we have resumed work on the dugouts and LED lights at D.C. Canegata Ballpark following recent approvals.”
White further outlined upcoming projects.
“With the restart of construction at the Vincent Mason Pool last week and our commitment to completing the big field at the Paul E. Joseph Stadium by the end of the year, we are optimistic about the future,” the commissioner said.
