Manatee County Approves $7 Million Project for Three New Baseball Fields at Country Club East Park

Manatee County commissioners have approved a $7 million project to construct three new baseball fields at Country Club East Park in Lakewood Ranch, a move aimed at easing overcrowding and expanding opportunities for youth baseball in the area.

The project will be funded through previously allocated Capital Improvement Project funds and will add new athletic facilities to the existing park.

Currently, approximately 700 players share just four fields at the park. Lakewood Ranch Little League officials say the additional fields will allow the league to significantly expand participation and accommodate growing interest in youth baseball.

League leaders estimate that the new fields could accommodate as many as 200 additional players, creating more opportunities for children who want to participate in organized baseball.

County officials say the new facilities will include lighting, backstops, and batting cages to support practices and games. The baseball complex will be built on a 15-acre property that Manatee County received in 2008 for public recreational use.

Some parents and community members have expressed concerns that converting park space into baseball fields could reduce open recreational areas for families and children who use the space for activities such as soccer, football, and free play.

County recreation officials say existing park amenities, including open space areas, the playground, and the pavilion, will remain in place and not be removed as part of the project.

Supporters of the expansion say the new fields will help meet the growing demand for youth sports in Lakewood Ranch while improving access for current players.

County officials have not yet announced a construction timeline for the project.