March 31st, 2025
New building adjacent to ballpark is part of ongoing multi-year $26 million effort to improve fan experience and ensure facilities meet new MLB requirements
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ROCHESTER, NY — Monroe County Executive Adam Bello announced today that construction of the Red Wings Performance Center, a new batting practice building and workout facility, has been completed at Innovative Field in time for opening day of the Rochester Red Wings 2025 season. This new facility marks the completion of a multi-year improvement project to the ballpark, which has been home to the Red Wings since 1997.
“For more than a century, Monroe County residents have cheered on the Rochester Red Wings. These ballpark upgrades will ensure that the Wings will continue to play at Innovative Field for years to come and will provide the players, coaches, and staff with a state-of-the-art facility to train and further work on their craft,” said County Executive Bello “Thank you to Governor Hochul, our state delegation and the Monroe County Legislature, for bringing these projects to fruition.”
The new practice facility includes state of the art technology that helps players prepare to compete, and meets the guidelines established by Major League Baseball for each of its minor league affiliates.
"From the moment we learned that Major League Baseball was requiring an upgrade to our player facilities in order to be in compliance with their standards, the County Executive’s response was ‘let’s get it done, and let’s be sure to make equivalent upgrades that the fans can enjoy.’ From that point on it was a go, and we are so proud and pleased to see this transformation," said Naomi Silver, President, CEO & COO, Rochester Red Wings. "Our players rely on what we provide to aid them in making the most of their talent, and they’ve come in here so surprised and excited with the result of this project. It puts us at the top of our game for players 'facilities, and we are extremely grateful to the County Executive, the County Legislature, the Governor, and the State Legislature for seeing the importance of this community asset, and making it happen."
Previous upgrades included a state-of-the-art videoboard, improvements to the VIP parking lot, facade LED Lighting, new seats and other fan amenities. Renovations and improvements have also been made to both the home and visiting players’ clubhouses, including 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.
“The Rochester Red Wings are a core part of the fabric of our community, providing opportunities for homegrown ballplayers and families alike to enjoy the game of baseball in front of a roaring Rochester crowd,” said Congressman Joe Morelle. “As a lifelong lover of America’s game, I’m grateful to County Executive Bello, Governor Hochul, and all our state and local partners for continuing to invest in the Red Wings and ensuring our facilities are some of the best in the country. Go Wings!”
“Governor Hochul’s focused investments in Innovative Field’s continued success and transformation are a home run for regional tourism growth, and will improve the overall quality of life for the Rochester community," said Hope Knight, Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner. "These completed improvements, as a whole, will amplify the fan experience at the ballpark, attract visitors from around the region and drive home all that downtown Rochester has to offer.”
“Baseball is back and better than ever this year at Innovative Field,” said 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 for years to come.”
“The Rochester Red Wings and Innovative Field are cornerstones of our community, bringing opportunity, inclusivity, and joy to people all throughout Monroe County and beyond," said Assemblymember Harry B. Bronson. "I am proud to have worked with Governor Hochul, my state delegation colleagues, County Executive Bello and the Monroe County Legislature to secure funding that supports the future of this beloved stadium and players, so it will remain a place for Red Wings fans and all in our community to enjoy for generations to come!”
"The completion of these upgrades at Innovative Field is a major win for both the players and our community. For the athletes, having access to a state-of-the-art training facility ensures they can develop their skills at the highest level and compete at their best," said Assemblymember Demond Meeks. "At the same time, these investments strengthen the connection between the Red Wings and the Rochester community, providing fans and families with an even better experience at the ballpark. This project reflects our commitment to supporting local sports, boosting our economy, and maintaining a vibrant gathering space for everyone to enjoy."
“Red Wings baseball has been a staple of Rochester summers for a century, bringing friends and families together to create a shared community in the heart of our city," said Assemblymember Sarah Clark. "Investing in this new facility enhances the fan experience while also helping the Red Wings team perform at the highest level. Let’s play ball!”
The Innovative Field MLB Improvements and the Facility and Patron Improvement projects, combined with the two ongoing efforts, total $26 million — and include $12 million in improvements required by Major League Baseball.
