As the use of the Bridgeport Recreation Complex continues and more events begin to take place on the multi-purpose field that now has lights and an irrigation system, the amenities needed to address the individuals utilizing the facility continues to grow. And because of that, the number of projects being done to meet that need also continues.

 

Most recently, a project that was part of the original master plan was finally completed. A new concession stand above the multi-purpose field will be available for use next year when warmer weather returns.

 

“We actually built the building and the structure for the concession stand last year when we put in the building with the restrooms,” said Bridgeport Parks and Recreation Deputy Director Joe Shuttleworth. “We left the front end of the structure open for the future development of the concession stand, and we just recently completed it.”

 

Thanks to funding that was approved by City Council, those who utilize that portion of the massive Recreation Complex won’t have to walk hundreds of yards to get to the concession stand at the baseball facility – provided that it’s in operation at the time.

 

“We knew we needed this, but it was value engineered out to make the original project fall in line with what was budgeted,” said P&R Director Don Burton.

 

The project was put out to bid and local contractor Ed Isner did the work. Shuttleworth said the finished product should meet the needs for that area of the complex, most notably those using the multi-purpose field. Shuttleworth said the cost for the project was $20,000.

 

“The contractor took the existing structure, boxed it in, put siding on it, installed roll up windows, doors and counter tops,” said Shuttleworth. “The inside is complete with counter tops, sinks, new dry wall and paint, and there is a fan to keep everyone cool.”

 

The design is relatively simple inside. There are the countertops as mentioned, as well as an ice machine and a large basin for washing items. Shuttleworth pointed out several areas where large coolers could be installed for drinks. He also said there are plenty of electrical outlets to allow for those using the concession stand to keep items hot that may be for sale.

 

“This allows for an operating concession stand for any of the activities that will take place on this (multi-purpose) field. Whether it’s football, soccer or lacrosse, or even a large cross country meet like the Charles Pointe Invitational the high school held here, there will now be a place for individuals to get concessions in a convenient location,” he said. “If you want to enhance the experience of those utilizing this complex, this is something that was needed and we’re pleased that funding was approved to make it happen.”

 

Additional upgrades and improvements could take place in the future. Already, Burton is schedule tournaments for 2015 and appears to have even more than this past year. As that use grows, the possibility of developing more property on the northern plateau is real – including recent discussion on an indoor recreation complex in that area where the city already owns acreage.

 

“It’s important that when you have something that can draw your residents and visitors from the local area and beyond that you have the proper amenities to serve them,” said Shuttleworth. “This is a big step forward in keeping this as a premier recreational facility as well as a destination for athletic events.”

 

Editor's Note: Joe Shuttleworth shows off some of the features of the new Rec Complex concession stand.