Softball Fields Renovation

A Community Victory

Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, the “Swing for the Million” campaign was a home run.

Together, local businesses, league players, families, donors, and community supporters raised more than $200,000, unlocking a transformational $1 million challenge gift for the renovation of the Elings Park softball fields.

What began as an ambitious fundraising campaign, quickly became a powerful demonstration of what our community can accomplish when we rally around a shared vision. Today, that vision is becoming reality.

The $1.2 million renovation will transform Elings Park’s three softball fields into safer, more sustainable, tournament-quality facilities that will serve thousands of youth and adult athletes for decades to come.

These renovations represent an investment in:

  • Safer playing conditions
  • Improved accessibility
  • Water-efficient irrigation systems
  • Long-term environmental sustainability
  • Enhanced experiences for athletes and spectators
  • A premier venue for local leagues and regional tournaments

Renovation Highlights

A major milestone in the renovation is the installation of new Hybrid Bermuda grass, selected for its durability, resilience, and ability to withstand heavy athletic use. The professionally installed turf provides a safer, more consistent playing surface while improving water efficiency and reducing long-term maintenance needs. As the grass becomes fully established, it will create high-quality fields that athletes can enjoy for years to come.

Long-Term Benefits

  • More consistent playing surfaces
  • Reduced maintenance costs
  • Improved water conservation
  • Better field durability
  • Increased tournament opportunities
  • A higher-quality experience for every player

Field 2: July 2026

Phase 1 Construction Progress

Field 2

Completed

  • French drain installed
  • Waterproofed infield walls
  • Asphalt patching
  • Irrigation system installed
  • Boulder bank retaining wall constructed
  • Graded infield
  • Warning track installed
  • Hybrid Bermuda grass installed
  • Dugout footings, backboard footings, and walls poured
  • Widened dugout dimensions
  • Handrail installed in dugout
  • New outlets installed in bleacher area

In Progress

  • Fencing 97% complete
  • Installation of infield dirt
  • Amenities installation: home plate, pitching mound, bases
  • Delivery of specialized turf mower

Phase 2 Coming Soon

Field 1 & 3

Stripping of sod on Field 1 to start 8/10

Stripping of sod on Field 3 to start 8/24

 
 
 
 
 
 
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Thank You, Santa Barbara!

The success of “Swing for the Million” belongs to everyone who believed in this project.

Whether you made a donation, sponsored the campaign, shared our story, encouraged your teammates, or helped spread the word, you made this transformation possible.

Your generosity will benefit thousands of youth and adult athletes, coaches, families, and visitors for generations to come.

Thank you for investing in community recreation and helping ensure that Elings Park remains a place where Santa Barbara comes together to play.

Looking Ahead

The successful renovation of the Elings Park softball fields marks the beginning of an important new chapter. With beautifully upgraded, tournament-quality fields now in place, our focus turns to preserving this investment for the long term.

As construction progresses, we look forward to welcoming players back onto fields that reflect the passion, pride, and generosity of our community.

The generosity of our community made this transformation possible. Continued support will help us protect that investment and extend the life of these improvements.

Your continued support helps fund future maintenance, repairs, and improvements and ensures the softball fields remains a source of pride for Santa Barbara for generations to come.

Together, we’re building the next generation of Elings Park.

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