Board allocates up to $86,000 to renovate George Watkins Elementary baseball field

The New Kent County Board of Supervisors voted Nov. 12 to appropriate up to $86,000 from the Colonial Downs reserve to renovate the George Watkins Elementary School baseball field, addressing safety concerns at the facility ahead of the 2026 season.

Jason Baldwin, parks and recreation assistant director, told the board the field has “significant safety and surface issues including tree roots and unkept playing surfaces” and estimated the renovation at “between $74,715 to $80,390 depending on what option” the board chooses. Staff recommended Option 2, which would add an outfield fence to help contain balls and improve safety.

Baldwin described necessary work including removal of large oaks whose roots intrude into the playing surface, laser grading to resolve standing water, fence repairs and new infield material. He said maintenance responsibility would be shared between parks and recreation staff and volunteer support from local youth association coaches.

Supervisor Pearson moved to appropriate up to $86,000 from the Colonial Downs Reserve for Future Projects to fund the renovation; the motion passed on a roll‑call vote. The board recorded support from supervisors during the vote and noted the parks and recreation commission had recommended the project.

The approved authorization includes contingency built into the appropriation to cover the recommended scope. Parks staff said they expect work to be scheduled so the field is ready for the upcoming spring season.