American Little League Board requests city help for lighting issues at Bridal Glen Field

During the recent City Council meeting on April 14, 2025, the Yucaipa City Council heard urgent concerns from the American Little League regarding the deteriorating lighting conditions at local baseball fields. As participation in the league has surged, the demand for field usage has increased, leading to scheduling challenges and safety issues for young players.

League representatives highlighted that several lights on Fields 5 and 6 at Bryant Glen and Seventh Street are malfunctioning, with Field 5 experiencing the most significant outages. This situation has forced the league to adjust game times, creating logistical difficulties for parents and coaches, and limiting practice opportunities before dark. The league emphasized that these lighting issues pose safety risks for the children involved.

In light of rising field usage fees and a new agreement with the city, the league has invested heavily in field maintenance, spending over $55,000 this year alone on improvements such as grading, new wiring for scoreboards, and portable pitching mounds. Despite these efforts, the ongoing lighting problems remain a pressing concern.

The league's board members, including President Matt, expressed their commitment to fostering a positive relationship with the city to ensure that the fields are well-maintained for the benefit of all players. They are now seeking the council's assistance in addressing the lighting situation, which they believe is crucial for providing a safe and enjoyable experience for the community's youth.

The council's response to this request could significantly impact the local sports community, as well as the overall quality of recreational facilities in Yucaipa. As the city continues to grow, ensuring that public amenities meet the needs of residents will be vital for fostering community engagement and youth development.