Community Corner

Palmer to Draft Lease Agreement with Miracle League of Northampton County

League moves closer to spring 2012 opening.

The proposed baseball field has locked down a location in Palmer Township.

On Tuesday, the Palmer Township Board of Supervisors approved drafting a lease agreement with the league, allowing them to construct the field on a one-acre plot of land at the northeast corner of the Charles Chrin Community Center. No word yet on the length of the lease agreement.

The non-profit organization builds specially designed baseball fields for children with disabilities. There are currently 240 custom baseball diamonds across the nation, each of which are made up of a rubberized surface that accommodates wheelchairs and other assisting devices.

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The estimated cost of the field is around $450,000 and is being paid for through donations. In Feb., the league received approval from the IRS to accept donations for the project.

“We hope to get a lot of the construction done this year,” said Supervisor Robert Lammi, who also is vice-president of the league. “Then in the spring of 2012 they’ll put down the special surface.”

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The league hopes to have the field ready for use by May 2012.

Bathroom facilities and a concession stand are also in the proposed plans. Water and utility payments accrued will likely be paid for by the township, officials said.

“In the big picture, 95 percent of the usage [of the concession stand and bathrooms] will probably be Palmer related and a small percentage for Miracle League,” said Supervisor David Colver.

Lights for the field are not in the plan since most games played on the field will be during daylight.

The Miracle League has already constructed a similar field in Heidelberg Township located off of routes 309 and 100.

For more information on the Miracle League, visit www.miracleleagueofnc.org.


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