May 7, 2026
Since the last update, the contractor has completed hydroseeding of the affected outfield areas at the Wabasha Athletic Complex.
Over the next couple of weeks, the City and contractor will be monitoring the site to evaluate whether the seed is germinating and beginning to establish as expected. To support early growth, the City will also be watering the newly seeded areas. Following this initial period, ongoing observation of turf development will continue to assess overall progress.
The fields are currently closed, and the public is asked to stay off the turf to avoid damaging the newly seeded areas while they are becoming established. At this time, no physical barriers are planned; however, City staff will be monitoring field use. If issues arise with people accessing the fields, temporary barriers may be installed.
A determination on reopening the fields will be made once conditions allow, balancing the need to make the fields available as soon as possible with the importance of protecting the new turf and preventing additional damage.
April 29, 2026
The City is aware of concerns regarding the baseball outfields at the Wabasha Athletic Complex and wants to assure the community that this issue has been receiving ongoing attention. The City has been working with the project contractor to address the outfield conditions as a normal part of the construction contract warranty process.
Following the 2025 baseball season, the outfields were repaired and regraded last fall, including sand leveling and reseeding. This work was intentionally scheduled after the season to avoid disrupting scheduled games and activities. Because the work occurred late in the year, dormant seeding was used. Dormant seeding is a commonly used approach, but successful grass establishment in the spring is dependent on weather conditions.
Earlier this spring, periods of warmer weather followed by colder temperatures and snow likely affected seed establishment, resulting in areas where the grass did not fully take. This possibility was understood when the fall work was completed and is one of the inherent risks associated with dormant seeding.
Reseeding could not be completed earlier this spring due to weather and soil conditions.The City expects the contractor to continue working with the City to correct the outfield conditions at no cost to the City and will continue to monitor progress to ensure the work is completed appropriately.
The City recognizes that timing is important for the upcoming baseball season and understands the scheduling challenges that the field conditions creates for teams, families, and organizers. The City appreciates the community’s patience and remains committed to restoring the athletic fields for safe, reliable, and enjoyable public use.
