Southfield approves expanded partnership with Lawrence Technological University to build all‑turf softball/baseball field

Southfield City Council on June 30 approved a collaboration with Lawrence Technological University (LTU) to convert the ball field east of the ice arena into an all‑turf softball and baseball facility, authorizing city officials to sign an agreement after the university committed private funding.

The council’s action authorized the mayor and city clerk to execute the LTU–City of Southfield all‑turf softball/baseball field collaboration agreement, based on the motion presented by Councilman Hoag and supported in the meeting. The motion recorded projected cost estimates at $2,500,000, with LTU committing $450,000 and the remainder to be funded by the city. The motion passed on a voice vote.

City officials and LTU representatives said the project aims to create a durable, multiuse field that will serve LTU’s women’s fast‑pitch softball program, local recreational leagues and potential tournament rentals that could bring weekend visitors to Southfield. “We’re committed to getting this done now, because it really does hurt our retention of the team,” said Kevin Finn, a presenter for LTU, explaining the university’s interest in an on‑campus, weather‑resilient playing surface.

Supporters told council that turf would improve drainage and extend the playable season — important for college softball, whose spring schedules begin in March. LTU’s presentation described upgrades including outfield turf, improved backstop and netting, upgraded dugouts, player warm‑up cages, seating repairs and branding to reflect both LTU and the city. LTU representatives said the new surface could also allow alternate uses in fall months, such as flag football, and create rental revenue opportunities for the city.

Council members probed the numbers and ongoing costs. Councilman Hogue asked for a specific breakdown of the additional funding request; LTU representatives said construction costs and materials have risen and that they could provide detailed price data to council. LTU and its donors also said a maintenance fund was anticipated to cover routine upkeep, and LTU agreed to assume normal day‑to‑day maintenance responsibilities for the facility. Adam, identified as the construction manager on the project, said pipeline routing and similar site issues had been reviewed and were not expected to prevent construction.

The presentation referenced prior project authorization: on July 10, 2023, council had previously authorized $1,550,000 toward capital improvements at the site. During the June 30 discussion the presenter said an additional half‑million had been requested earlier in the process; the final motion recorded a projected total of $2,500,000 with LTU’s $450,000 contribution. Council members requested supporting cost documentation before final contracting; presenters said they would supply more detailed cost data to the city in follow‑up.

The council approved the agreement and budget increase by voice vote. Councilmembers and the mayor framed the project as a joint investment in recreational amenities, athletics retention for the university and potential local economic activity from tournaments.

The council indicated it expects to review design and contract details in the coming months and that a ceremonial groundbreaking was tentatively planned for September. Construction timing discussed at the meeting aimed for work to begin in the fall with completion targeted for the following spring or earlier if schedule and bids allow.