Council clears partnership with Seattle University | Bannerwood Park infield to be replaced with synthetic turf

The Bellevue City Council on Monday approved an agreement with Seattle University to replace the infield at the Bannerwood Park Baseball Field with synthetic turf.

By Brandon Macz • October 14, 2014 5:34 pm
The city and Seattle University have entered an agreement to replace the infield at Bannerwood Park Baseball Field with synthetic turf.
The city and Seattle University have entered an agreement to replace the infield at Bannerwood Park Baseball Field with synthetic turf.

 

The Bellevue City Council on Monday approved an agreement with Seattle University to replace the infield at the Bannerwood Park Baseball Field with synthetic turf.

Under a 10-year agreement with SU, the city will cover $120,000 in soft costs related to the $660,000 project and receive a one-time payment of $275,000 from the university, which will continue to make annual payments of $26,500, with a 2.5 percent increase per year.

The Redhawks have been playing Division 1 ball at Bannerwood since the program was reinstated in 2009, but has been limited to just playing games. The agreement with the city allows the Redhawks to use the field for a minimum of 70 times for games and practices between Feb. 15 and May 31 each year, and at least 20 times from Sept. 7 to Oct. 21.

SU has the option to renew its agreement with the city for five years following the initial 10-year term under the existing rental rates for the field at that time. If it does not take the option, SU will lose any interest in the park.