Bradenton Announces City Park Expansion at LECOM Park to Boost Recreation and Economic Growth
The City of Bradenton is moving forward with a major enhancement to LECOM Park: a multi-phase expansion, City Park, that will add new ball fields, parking, and a community center to the historic baseball district.
The project builds on the long-standing legacy of LECOM Park, which serves as the spring training home of the Pittsburgh Pirates and the regular season home of the Bradenton Marauders. City officials plan to complete the development in phases, with some components expected to be ready within two years.
City Park is designed to extend the area's use beyond professional baseball, creating a year-round recreational destination for residents. Plans include expanded athletic facilities and community gathering spaces that will also serve nearby neighborhoods, including a neighboring elementary school.
The initiative also aims to stimulate economic activity along Ninth Street and surrounding corridors. By increasing foot traffic and hosting more community events, the city anticipates new opportunities for local businesses, including restaurants, breweries, and retail establishments.
The redevelopment reflects both a preservation of history and a shift toward broader community access. The name City Park pays homage to the site’s original designation in 1923, while the updated vision focuses on making the space more active and accessible year-round.
Longtime local observers note the area's transformation over the decades, from its early days hosting legendary baseball figures to periods of limited use outside the baseball season. The city’s current investment is intended to reimagine the space as a vibrant hub that honors its past while positioning it for future growth.
As planning and land acquisition continue, city leaders expect the project to attract a new generation of visitors and fans, reinforcing Bradenton’s identity as both a historic baseball destination and a growing community centerpiece.