The North Tonawanda National Little League (NTNLL) is embarking on a significant transformation, promising a more modern, functional, and enjoyable experience for players, families, and the entire North Tonawanda community. Driven by dedicated volunteers, community support, and a forward-thinking vision, the league is planning a series of comprehensive upgrades to its facility on Sakora Drive, starting with the construction of a brand-new pavilion.
The initial focus is strategically building a 20' x 40' pavilion between fields 1 and 2. According to members of the NTNLL board, this new structure will address concerns regarding space and clutter, providing a central hub for league activities and comfortable gathering place for families. NTNLL is currently soliciting bids from qualified vendors for pavilion kits, concrete pad construction, and electrical work.
NTNLL President David Fingerlow believes this project is just the beginning in building for the future.
“We recognized the need for a covered space that can facilitate team meetings, provide shelter from the elements, and simply serve as a community gathering point," said Fingerlow. “This pavilion is just the first step in our long-term vision for upgrading the entire complex.”
This pavilion project represents the beginning of a phased approach to enhancing the entire NTNLL complex. Fingerlow stated that he is working closely with Niagara County Legislator Rich Andres, Mayor Austin Tylec, the North Tonawanda Common Council, and Building Inspector Rob DePaolo to move these many projects forward.
The remaining planned improvements are wide-ranging and aimed at improving both aesthetics and functionality:
New Field: With increased participation, discussions are underway with city officials to add an additional field. "As team sizes grow, we want to ensure everyone gets playing time," explained Fingerlow. "A new field will alleviate scheduling constraints and provide more opportunities for kids to get on the diamond.”
Accessibility & Aesthetics: Plans include the installation of new sidewalks and improved drainage along Sakora Drive. Practical additions such as additional metal waste baskets and benches are included as well as planting smaller, more manageable, trees to replace those damaged by weather. Flower boxes and hanging baskets will also be added throughout the grounds.
Enhanced Amenities: NTNLL's new vision includes an expansion of the clubhouse to incorporate a kitchen equipped with a grill and a concrete pad adjacent to the clubhouse, perfect for picnic table seating. Plans also call for blacktop paths throughout the complex to improve accessibility and safety.
Improved Parking & Access: To address parking issues, NTNLL plans to construct a walkway along the parking lot leading to Field 3 and will be working with the city to pave the current grass parking lot along Wheatfield Street.
Modern Communication: Plans call for digital signage installation at all entrances and corners of Twin City Hwy. and Wheatfield Street to keep the community informed about league news, schedules, and events. This is further enhanced by a contract with Niagara Action to showcase NTNLL's activities through photo galleries, videos, possible live footage, drone shots, and a dedicated YouTube channel.
Field Maintenance: Addressing the core of the NTNLL experience, the league plans to invest heavily in field maintenance with additions of proper bullpens, new scoreboards, and new fencing with state of the art safety tops. Netting will be installed for foul ball protection and all overgrown vegetation along Twin City Hwy. will be removed.
“We are excited to embark on this journey of improving our facilities,” Fingerlow stated. "We have been working towards these upgrades, which will not only enhance the playing experience for our young athletes but also provide a more welcoming and enjoyable environment for the entire community.”
The league expects to complete several key projects before the start of the upcoming season, which includes pavilion construction, digital signage installation, and paving of the grass parking lot.
As surrounding little leagues close, NTNLL is on the rise and has seen an increase in registration each year. This year, Fingerlow said registration shows an 60% increase.
Planned improvements signal a significant investment in the future of NTNLL and demonstrate a commitment to providing a top-notch experience for players and their families.
Beyond physical improvements, Fingerlow expressed his desire to foster a deeper sense of communiy within the league. One plan to accomplish his goal is implementing a "buddy system" to help kids struggling in school or those simply looking for a friend.
As the league moves forward with its ambitious plans, the community eagerly anticipates the revitalized look and enhanced functionality of the NTNLL complex.
Major Upgrades on the Horizon for North Tonawanda National Little League