Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Stadium Renovation topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Peninsula Stadium Authority seeks council sign‑off to begin Phase 1 War Memorial renovations
Summary
The Peninsula Stadium Authority presented a Phase 1 plan for War Memorial Stadium focused on ADA access, a two‑level training facility, new restrooms and concessions. Q Design estimated Phase 1 at about $1.2 million and asked council for approval to access funds already appropriated for design and RFP work.
The Peninsula Stadium Authority asked the Hampton City Council to allow it to access previously appropriated funds to begin design and construction work on a Phase 1 renovation of War Memorial Stadium.
Authority Chairman Jim Wilson told council the priority is to modernize key public‑facing elements while keeping the stadium operable for the Peninsula Pilots, the Apprentice School and regional tournaments. "We are requesting your approval to work with Q Design and start this process as our first statement for capital improvement," Wilson said.
Ron Quinn of Q Design presented conceptual plans that center on a two‑level, 70‑by‑30 training facility on the third‑base side, new accessible restroom and concession blocks outside the stadium footprint, a northwest gate with ticket kiosks, and an exterior elevator to provide ADA access to the second level. Quinn said the team applied AECOM square‑footage guidance and "came up with about $1,200,000 total," a figure that includes site drainage work.
User‑group representatives emphasized demand and scheduling constraints. Mark Tomlin, acting athletic director at The Apprentice School, said improving drainage and, eventually, installing turf would increase tournament opportunities and reduce weather‑related cancellations. Don Griffin (Virginia Swamp Things) and Brent Wentworth (Club Waka) described frequent regional use that generates rental revenue.
Council members questioned phasing priorities—locker rooms, field drainage and parking—and staff explained tradeoffs tied to available funding. The city manager said the funds requested are already appropriated and sought an informal nod before authorizing access. Council members indicated support for advancing design and RFP work, with staff to return with any outstanding technical clarifications.
