Council approves working with firm to design improvements at Snyder Field

Key Takeaways:

• The Albert Lea City Council approved a $29,500 contract with ISG to design improvements at Snyder Field.
• Upgrades will include a new concession stand, restrooms, and ADA compliance features.
• The city will fund the bathrooms, while the Albert Lea baseball association will contribute to the concession stand.
• Designs are expected by late spring 2025, with construction slated for 2026.
• Previous improvements at Snyder Field included drainage, fencing, and dugouts.

Council Approves Design for Snyder Field Upgrades

The Albert Lea City Council has taken a significant step toward enhancing Snyder Field, a cherished community sports venue. On Monday, the council voted to collaborate with ISG of St. Louis Park to design a series of improvements, including the construction of a new concession stand, updated restrooms, and enhancements to meet ADA compliance standards.

Addressing Long-Standing Needs

In 2020, a study highlighted numerous areas at Snyder Field requiring attention, citing the need for “improvements in drainage, restrooms, concession areas, parking, walkways, spectator areas, coaching areas and general park spaces.” Acting on these findings, the city completed drainage improvements in 2022 and upgraded fences and dugouts in 2023.

Funding and Community Collaboration

City Manager Ian Rigg stated that “about $29,000 from the city’s capital fund would cover the costs for the firm for the design work.” The financial plan showcases a collaborative effort, with the city funding the restroom upgrades and the Albert Lea baseball association contributing significantly to the new concession stand.

Enhancing Accessibility

A crucial aspect of the planned upgrades focuses on accessibility. City Engineer Steven Jahnke outlined that several parking stalls will be paved to achieve ADA compliance, ensuring that Snyder Field becomes more accessible for all community members. The remainder of the parking area will retain its gravel surface.

Timeline for Development

Designs and cost estimates are slated to be presented to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board in late spring, with a final report expected in April. “The goal is to have a plan and costs by the summer to allow for fundraising,” Rigg explained. Construction is anticipated to begin in 2026, marking a significant milestone in the field’s transformation.

Selecting ISG for the Project

The city received proposals from three consulting firms for the planning and design services. Ultimately, the council selected ISG of St. Louis Park for $29,500. This decision propels the project into its next phase, leveraging ISG’s expertise to breathe new life into Snyder Field.

Additional Council Actions

Beyond Snyder Field, the council approved the Albert Lea Tribune as the official city newspaper for 2025, ensuring legal items required by law are published appropriately. They also ordered the preparation of feasibility reports for several improvement projects slated for 2025, including:

• Road Improvements: Mill and overlay projects and curb replacements on various streets.
• Infrastructure Upgrades: Reconstruction of 11th Street and paving of the parking lot adjacent to the Freeborn National Bank building.
• Environmental Projects: Construction of a stormwater retention basin in an undeveloped area.
• Public Amenities: Replacing approximately 150 lead service lines and constructing a new bike shelter at the Blazing Star Trailhead at Frank Hall Park.

Investing in Community Infrastructure

These initiatives reflect Albert Lea’s commitment to investing in its infrastructure and enhancing public spaces. As Snyder Field undergoes its planned transformation, residents can look forward to improved facilities that support community activities and promote accessibility for all.