April 10th, 2024
Latest upgrades are part of ongoing multi-year $26 million effort to improve fan experience and ensure ballpark meets new MLB requirements
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Monroe County Executive Adam Bello announced today that renovations and improvements to the home player’s clubhouse have been completed at Innovative Field, along with a major expansion of the stadium’s kitchen facilities. These upgrades are part of a multi-year improvement project to the ballpark, which has been home to the Rochester Red Wings since 1997.
Previous upgrades include a state-of-the-art videoboard, which was installed last summer, and renovations to the visitor’s clubhouse, that includes new female staff facilities, to serve the growing number of women working as coaches, trainers and nutritionists.
These improvements are part of a $26 million investment announced in 2022 by the County Executive, Monroe County Legislature and Governor Kathy Hochul, who contributed $10 million toward the renovation work at Innovative Field in her 2022 New York State budget. The Finger Lakes Regional Economic Development Council has also provided $2.5 million for these needed upgrades.
“For more than a century, Monroe County residents have cheered on the Rochester Red Wings. These ballpark upgrades will help take the game experience to the next level — and ensure that the Wings can continue to play here for years to come,” said County Executive Bello “Thank you to Governor Hochul, our state delegation and to the Monroe County legislature, for bringing these projects to fruition.”
“As the home of the Rochester Red Wings, Innovative Field has been the source of countless traditions for Rochester’s families for almost 30 years,” said Rochester Mayor Malik D. Evans. “I want to thank Monroe County Executive Adam Bello and Governor Kathy Hochul for making the critical investments that will allow families to continue creating memories at Innovative Field for decades to come. Maintaining our region’s incredible quality of life is critical to our efforts to create a safe, equitable, and prosperous Rochester by inspiring hope and delivering opportunity for everyone.”
“The Red Wings are extremely grateful to County Executive Bello, Governor Hochul, and the New York State Legislature for the improvements that have been made here at Innovative Field,” said Rochester Red Wings CEO/COO Naomi Silver. “When Major League Baseball announced certain required upgrades to players’ facilities across the country, our County Executive and New York State stepped up to make that happen, and as our facility is aging, they have responded to its increasing needs. The leadership shown proves the commitment of local and State government to our community and we, and our fans, are very thankful.”
“Baseball is back and better than ever this year at Innovative Field,” said State Senator Jeremy Cooney. “Thanks to the investments made by County Executive Bello and Governor Hochul, this state-of-the-art stadium will continue to provide the best possible experience for our players and fans.”
"Innovative Field is a gem in our community,” said Assemblymember Harry Bronson. “I am proud to have worked with Governor Hochul, my state delegation colleagues, County Executive Bello and the Monroe County Legislature to secure investments that support the future of this beloved stadium so it will remain a place our community enjoys for generations to come!"
"Innovative Field is more than a stadium - it is a cherished landmark whose venue has accommodated countless events and celebrations within our community. Their ongoing expansion will not only ensure a quality experience for fans and visitors, but also uphold a sense of pride in our stadium for all of our residents,” said Assemblyman Demond Meeks. “Thank you to our County Executive Adam Bello, the Monroe County Legislature, and Governor Kathy Hochul for their continued support of this important piece of Rochester’s legacy."
Additional projects are underway at Innovative Field, including the construction of a new batting practice building and workout facility, and improvements to the VIP parking lot. Upcoming projects include facade LED Lighting, new seats and other fan amenities.
The Innovative Field MLB Improvements and the Facility and Patron Improvement projects combined with the two ongoing efforts total $26 Million — including $12 million in improvements required by Major League Baseball.
All MLB-required improvements to Innovative Field are scheduled for completion by April of 2025, in time for opening day.
