Shawnee State University has spoken out about concerns about the plan to transfer Spartan Stadium, Branch Rickey Park, and neighboring land from the city to the university.
SCDN asked the university for details about its plan for the fields and whether or not they would be willing to guarantee access to Portsmouth Little League players.
Here’s what they had to say, “Five fields used by the Portsmouth Little League (PLL) are not part of the property transfer. PLL raised concerns with the City regarding one particular softball field being used temporarily until the floodwall project is complete. SSU wholeheartedly supports the Portsmouth Little League and will cooperate with the City to address PLL concerns regarding the temporary use of that field.”
However, the university is still not ready to reveal the detailed plan for the properties. “Council is considering a transfer to Shawnee State University of Spartan Stadium, Branch Rickey Park, and some adjacent land. Should that happen, SSU will develop a comprehensive plan for the site that includes improvement of existing facilities.”
The university says it doesn’t want to get in the way of local government, “While SSU is excited about the opportunities this project presents for the university and community, we respect the City’s process and will not interfere with its deliberations. We have made ourselves available for questions that City officials have and will continue to do so.”