Council approved an updated plan Tuesday for the West Recreation site that will now include five ball diamonds and a 12-acre, off-leash dog park. Construction on the site is slated to start this June.

The project represents a $3-million investment in enhanced recreation opportunities for Beaumont’s residents.

“Our Places and Play - the Recreation, Parks and Facilities Master Plan - identified that we need to invest in opportunities like these to address the rapid growth of our community and make sure Beaumont continues to be a great place to live, play and raise a family,” said Mayor John Stewart. “This summer, we are putting the plan into action with this project, along with construction of a multi-use field in Four Seasons Park.”

Original plans for the park included four ball diamonds. With the Beaumont Minor Baseball Association confirmed as a recipient of Blue Jays Care Foundation’s Field of Dreams grant funding for 2021, the city will be able to build five ball diamonds at the site.

“This much-needed project is important for recreation in our community and we couldn’t be happier now that it’s going ahead,” said Scott Kadatz, Beaumont Minor Baseball Association President. “Our association’s membership has grown so fast in recent years, we’ve had to host games outside the community. We can’t wait for our kids to play more games in their hometown and even host tournaments right here in Beaumont.”

Beaumont Blitz Fastball Association is currently working to secure sponsorships for further enhancements of the site, including an electronic scoreboard and bleachers.

“We are excited this project has been approved and are looking forward to partnering with the city and some of our sponsors to really hit this one out of the park,” said Brian Vanberg, Beaumont Blitz Fastball Association President. “Our girls can’t wait to take the field in 2022.”

The dog park was planned originally at four acres but after receiving feedback from the community, Council added eight more acres. The 12-acre park will include a walking trail and landscaping with trees and shrubs.

“We are happy to see this moving forward. A bigger dog park can provide a safer, more enjoyable place for people to exercise their dogs and Beaumont has needed adequate space for a long time,” said Denise LeMoine, spokesperson for the Better Beaumont Dog Park Committee. “We are excited Council has created a space which will address the needs of the city for now and into the future.”