Winter Haven, FL – The City of Winter Haven is excited tounveil plans for the redevelopment of the historic Chain of Lakes Park. As the former spring training home for major league baseball teams like the Boston Red Sox and Cleveland Indians, this site is poised to embrace a bright future while honoring its illustrious past. In partnership with Polk County and the Polk County Sports Marketing team, the City is spearheading a $20 million project that promises to transform the park into a state-of-the-art facility for amateur and collegiate baseball, infused with the spirit and memories of its historic legacy.
A Commitment to Heritage and Innovation:
Understanding the importance of the park’s history to our community, the redevelopment team is dedicated to preserving elements of the park’s past. Notably, efforts are being made to salvage and restore stadium seating, allowing these pieces of history to find new life in the revamped facility. This initiative reflects our commitment to blending the park’s rich heritage with modern amenities, ensuring that the legacy of Chain of Lakes Park continues to live on, both in spirit and in physical form.
Project Highlights:
• Construction Timeline: Demolition of current structures is set to begin April 8, lasting approximately six weeks.Construction will commence by late summer. This marks the first step in realizing the vision for a modernized park.
• Park Features: The redevelopment will introduce four collegiate-level artificial turf baseball fields, along with cutting-edge facilities like dugouts, batting cages, team pavilions, fan areas, expanded parking, and more.
• Opening in Time for Russmatt Baseball Tournament: The facilities are slated to open in February 2025, just in time to host the Russmatt Baseball tournament, underscoring the park’s ongoing commitment to amateur baseball.
• Enhanced Visitor Experience: By Summer 2025, a new entrance building will enhance the visitor experience with amenities such as ticket booths, a concession area, restrooms, and team rooms.
• Preserving Our Past for Future Generations: In addition to the physical redevelopment of the park, the City is exploring opportunities for community members to keep a piece of the stadium’s history. This initiative aims to allow citizens to own a tangible part of the park’s legacy, further strengthening the bond between the community and this iconic site. Residents are encouraged to stay tuned to the city’s website and social media channels for more information on how they can participate in this opportunity.
Looking Ahead:
Future phases of the redevelopment plan include adding a playground, multipurpose field area, lake shoreline activation, and a boardwalk, enhancing the park’s appeal and utility for generations to come.
The City of Winter Haven, together with Polk County and the Polk County Sports Marketing team, is excited to lead this landmark project. By honoring the park’s storied past while looking forward to its dynamic future, we are committed to enriching our community’s sports and recreational culture and providing a vibrant, inclusive space for all to enjoy.
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The City of Winter Haven invites the community to step up to the plate and celebrate the official opening of the new artificial turf baseball fields at the historic Chain of Lakes Park. The First Pitch event will take place on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. at 210 Cypress Gardens Blvd., Winter Haven, FL 33880.
This momentous event marks a significant milestone in the park’s $20 million redevelopment project, a collaboration between the City of Winter Haven, Polk County, and Polk County Sports Marketing. Chain of Lakes Park, once home to major league spring training for the Boston Red Sox and Cleveland Indians, is now entering a new era—welcoming athletes, families, and baseball enthusiasts to a modern, state-of-the-art facility.
Event Highlights:
· Remarks from local leaders, including Mayor Birdsong, Commissioner Santiago, and Julie Adams, Parks, Recreation & Culture Director.
· Ceremonial First Pitch thrown by Mayor Birdsong on Field 3.
· Important Reminder: Attendees should wear athletic-soled shoes to protect the new turf.
“We’re excited to open this incredible facility that not only respects the park’s deep-rooted history but also sets the stage for future generations of athletes,” said Julie Adams, Parks, Recreation & Culture Director. “This is more than just a ballpark—it’s a community space built for connection, competition, and memories.”
The Chain of Lakes Park redevelopment is designed to position Winter Haven as a premier destination for amateur and collegiate baseball tournaments, with its four artificial turf fields, modern amenities, and future enhancements like playgrounds, lakefront activation, and multi-use spaces.
The new fields are set to host the Russmatt Baseball Tournament this spring, with future tournaments and local events already on the calendar.
Join us on March 1 and be part of this exciting chapter in Winter Haven’s legacy. Let’s play ball!
