RAPID CITY, SD – Two of the most utilized sports complexes in Rapid City have undergone a significant transformation following a winter and spring construction period aimed at improving accessibility and playability.

The Whitehead Fields, situated along Canyon Lake Drive near 32nd Street, now feature ADA-accessible spectator areas, new fencing, and updated backstops. A primary focus of the $400,000 project was the installation of an underdrain system designed to mitigate issues caused by a high water table and frequent rain.

“Whitehead Fields are the most used fields out of all the ballfields in Rapid City, utilized by multiple leaseholder groups,” said Rapid City Parks and Recreation Project Manager Darin Sabers. “Over the years, the fields have been used for church league softball, tee ball, youth and adult flag football and for softball tournaments.”

The project, funded through the City’s government buildings and Capital Improvement Project programs, was designed by Designworks, Inc. and constructed by Complete Concrete, both of which are Rapid City companies.

According to Sabers, years of maintenance had caused the infield grades to rise to a point where they were no longer functional. Crews salvaged nearly 18 inches of infield fines for reuse while leveling the surfaces. The fields were also reconfigured with 60 and 65-foot base line options to accommodate various age groups.

“The infields were to the point of not being usable due to the excess infield mix,” Sabers said. “An underdrain system was also installed in the infields to promote better drainage and playability after rain storms, as well as help with drainage due to the high water table below the fields.”

Safety and fan experience were also prioritized. Uniform fencing was restored to the Whitehead West field, and new 15-foot backstops were erected. To ensure the longevity of the new turf, the fields will remain closed to the public until June 1, allowing new sod and seed time to establish roots.

Looking ahead, Rapid City Parks and Recreation plans to level outfield areas this fall. Future phases, contingent on funding, include new dugouts and field lighting.

The Whitehead project is part of a broader push for athletic facility improvements across Rapid City. Officials are currently finalizing designs for Vision Fund upgrades at McKeague Field and beginning the design phase for improvements at Canyon Lake Little League, which will include a new ADA-compliant restroom facility and “Crow’s Nest.”