Chatham-Kent Council is being asked to approve the purchase of land to build a $16.7 million baseball complex in Blenheim.
The municipality wants to buy approximately 32 acres of land at 9267 Allison Line in Blenheim to develop the South Kent Ball Diamond Complex and the Public Utilities Commission reservoir.
The $1.6 million cost to buy the parcel would be funded from the Hydro One Community Benefit Reserve and the Public Utilities Commission Water Facilities Lifecycle Reserve, staff said.
The four diamond complex is intended to meet increasing demand for baseball/softball and strengthen long-term facility availability by reducing dependence on school board properties.
Administration also said the preferred property offers the best overall balance of accessibility, site design flexibility, servicing feasibility, and long-term growth potential.
"This area would accommodate the proposed 23.88-acre ball diamond complex while also reserving lands for future Chatham-Kent Public Utilities Commission infrastructure requirements and potential recreational expansion," stated the staff report.
Staff cited the parcel has frontage on both Communications Road and Allison Line, providing multiple access points, improved traffic circulation, enhanced emergency access, and strong regional connectivity to Highway 401.
The site is also generally flat, minimizing the need for extensive earthworks, while its size and configuration support an efficient four-diamond tournament-style layout with ample parking, amenities, and opportunities for growth.
