We knew it would happen - and it finally did.

 

Walking out of our respective homes, schools and workplaces, we were met by the full force of the sun on our backs.

 

Crumbled, brittle leaves lingered on oak trees, but their mighty branches served as the perfect framework for a true blue sky.Recently glistening with morning frost, the soft ground seemingly breathed in the warmed air; the season’s first flowers pushing through the surface.

Birds chirped in unison. As their songs reached our ears, we were reminded of nature’s perfect harmony.

 

Along the streets of Bridgeport, residents sprung up on bicycles, scooters and stilts. They walked dogs, pushed strollers and dribbled basketballs. Smiles and pleasant greetings were prevalent.

 

Spring had sprung.

Soon to follow were the echoing sounds of cracking baseball bats and hard-kicked soccer balls. At Compton and Bridgeport City Parks, squeaky swings and teeter totters got their first major workouts of the season.

 

Stocking began at Hinkle & Deegan Lakes, thousands of pounds of rainbow, golden, brown and brook trout being spilled into the city’s favorite fishing spot. Kids and adults alike watched in anticipation of angling season.

 

And here we are this week unveiling the city’s brand new recreational complex, a most anticipated project over the past several months and years. As design work was completed, we got our first vision and as each phase of construction was completed, it became more of a reality. Soon, Little Leaguers would be running the bases, kicking up dust with every accelerated step. Providing game play-by-plays would be announcers, stationed in the state-of-the-art press box. During evening hours, fitness enthusiasts would grace the mile-long walking course, reflecting the day’s events. And there would surely be a pick-up game or two going on at nearby basketball courts.

 

An abundance of late-winter rain made for very muddy working conditions, but overseers and on-site workers alike stuck to the plan. Of course, that’s not all that was stuck. During one trip to the complex, one opening day committee member came to a standstill in the parking lot sludge.

 

The next visit to the complex, however, was smooth sailing. We were met by a paved parking lot, freshly planted decorative trees and the smell of cedar mulch. From the press box, we were treated to bird’s eye views of all four fields, turf down, bases being measured and infields being manicured.  In the distance, we witnessed the massive state-of-the art scoreboard being hoisted into position. Standing upon the baseball inset in the corridor, we looked to either side of us. In one direction were grazing cows; in the other, an airplane made its way down the runway. The rec complex would be the perfect balance of fast-paced action and relaxation.

 

The words “Let’s play ball” are indeed music to everyone’s ears. So have a Coke and a smile – and enjoy.

 

We knew it would happen – and it finally did.