Douglas Recreation Commission Approves Soldiers Field Infield Renovation for August Start

DOUGLAS -- June 29, 2026, Douglas Recreation Commission approves Soldiers Field infield renovation and reorganizes leadership. The commission unanimously reelected Ryan Hogan as chairman and Hannah Stevens as vice chair at its June 29 meeting, then voted unanimously to approve a DYBS-funded infield renovation project on the small field at Soldiers Field, with contractors available as early as August. The scope includes stripping the infield square, laser grading and compacting a reshaped surface, rebuilding the pitcher's mound and home plate using a premium material called Dura Edge, installing Kentucky bluegrass sod, and creating new base paths, while preserving the existing irrigation system. Three vendors have submitted or are expected to submit quotes, all above the $10,000 procurement threshold. The commission will next seek Board of Selectmen approval and consult the town's conservation agent before a contractor is selected. A proposed farmers market from the Agricultural Committee was deferred because the committee had no concrete plan, and an ADA-compliance dispute over a recently purchased Amazon picnic table was left unresolved after the raising official did not appear.