Major sports complex coming to West Michigan | News

GRAND RAPIDS (WZZM)- The West Michigan Sports Commission Wednesday announced plans for a major baseball and softball facility to be constructed near U.S. 131 and 10 Mile Road in Plainfield Township. The ground breaking is expected to happen in 2012 on the 80 acre complex that will feature 12 baseball and softball diamonds.

Funding for the project is well underway. The Sports Commission says it has raised $4.3 million of the needed $6 million to complete phase one of development. The complex will house a championship diamond and several smaller diamonds. Also included in the plans is a Miracle League Field which will be used for players with disabilities.

The complex is expected to draw thousands of visitors to the area in the coming years. "We've visited other communities that have similar complexes," says retired Grand Valley State University president Arend (Don) Lubbers. "They all tell us the same thing--if you build it, they will come." The Sports Commission estimates the baseball/softball complex will bring a $20 million economic impact to West Michigan in its first five years.   

To learn more about the project including how to contribute click here.

To learn more about the West Michigan Miracle League click here.