DBAP’s Makeover Named “Best Ballpark Renovation” by Ballpark Digest
Ballpark Digest, a leading online guide to ballparks and baseball, has recognized the upgrade to Durham Bulls Athletic Park as “Best Ballpark Renovation Over $2 Million” in its 2014 annual awards. The honor for the DBAP’s renovation comes a week after the franchise was named winner of the 2014 John H. Johnson President’s Award, Minor League Baseball’s highest annual accolade.
“North Carolina truly is the Cradle of the Game, and the Durham Bulls are at the center of that baseball tradition,” said Kevin Reichard, Ballpark Digest publisher. “Going to a game at Durham Bulls Athletic Park is a great time, and the many improvements to the ballpark only enhance that experience.”
The massive $20 million renovation of Durham Bulls Athletic Park took place prior to the 2014 season, an ambitious project that was completed in six months as the team prepared for Triple-A All-Star festivities. Among the improvements were the installations of four state-of-the-art video displays, a robust Wi-Fi network capable of serving 8,000 simultaneous users, an all-new playing surface, and new seating and field lighting throughout the stadium. The renovation also included the construction of the new PNC Triangle Club, an upscale 5,000 square foot event space, and Jackie’s Landing, a popular social area that provides fans with unique food and drink options and an uninterrupted view of the field and Downtown Durham skyline.
“It’s always been one of the most charming ballparks in baseball, and now it’s even more of an essential experience for any fan,” Reichard added.
“This renovation project aimed to take the DBAP to new heights while retaining the aura that makes it a very special place,” said Durham Bulls General Manager Mike Birling. “The ambitious undertaking really set the tone for a historic season, as it laid the groundwork for a tremendous 2014 Triple-A All-Star Game and a new single-season paid attendance record.”
The DBAP project is currently up for a Durham Golden Leaf Award in the Large Development category. Fans can vote for the winner of that award, which recognizes properties that illustrate the best visual contributions to the community, here.
The Durham Bulls open the 2015 International League season on the road on April 9 before returning to the DBAP for their home opener on Wednesday, April 15. Full season, mini-plan, and group ticket packages for the 2015 season are available now. For more information, visit durhambulls.com, the DBAP ticket office or call 919.956.BULL.
About Ballpark Digest/August Publications
The leading Website covering the culture and business of baseball since its inception in 2002, Ballpark Digest (www.ballparkdigest.com) has been called an “indispensable” guide to baseball and ballparks by The New York Times; it’s been used as a source by publications and Websites ranging from The Wall Street Journal to Epicurious.com. August Publications is a publisher based in Middleton, Wis. Besides Ballpark Digest, August Publications websites include SpringTrainingOnline.com, ArenaDigest.com, YellowstoneInsider.com and NewWest.net.
Thanks to DBBC’s Scott Carter for this capcom story & graphic.
