RAPID CITY, S.D. – Construction has officially begun on Pete Lien Memorial Field, home of Rapid City Post 320 baseball, as crews prepare the facility for a major multi-phase upgrade.

Crews from Scull Construction were on site conducting grading operations for Phase 1 of the project, which will replace the field’s natural surface with modern artificial sports turf.

Rick Wit, president of Post 320, said the primary motivation behind the project is to enhance playability and lower maintenance demands on local families.

“The main reason for doing the field is just to improve the playing surface,” Wick said. “Back in the day when it was built, it was built to surface drain, so it wasn’t a perfect field. We want to improve the field, we want to kind of minimize the maintenance for our volunteer parents every year, and so we put a plan together.”

Under Phase 1, Scull Construction is performing the initial grading work, while Mammoth will handle the turf installation. Wick said Phase 1 is expected to wrap up by mid-January, weather permitting.

The new artificial surface will utilize an organic infill instead of standard crumb rubber to keep the playing surface cooler during summer heat. The field design will also feature a removable pitcher’s mound and adjustable base distances, enabling the facility to host softball and Little League baseball tournaments in addition to Post 320 games.

Wit noted that the project utilizes high-tier athletic turf technology.

“The turf that we’re using is very similar to what they’re using at MLB stadiums,” Wit said. “We’re being told that we will have the number seven field in the country with the materials and the turf that we’re using.”

Phase 2, anticipated to begin next year, will focus on surrounding facility infrastructure. Planned additions include a new stadium seating area, crow’s nest, concession facilities, and locker rooms. Wick estimated the full project will take two years, creating a venue that resembles a professional spring training facility.

Initial project funding was secured through private donors, with RPM Industries and Pete Lien & Sons serving as the primary donors. Post 320 continues to solicit additional private donors and corporate sponsors for advertising opportunities across both phases.

An official press conference and media event at the facility is planned for next week to formally introduce project details and renderings to the public.

Wit viewed the renovated Pete Lien Memorial Field as a major asset for Rapid City, with potential to attract regional athletic events, collaborate with Post 22, and drive local sports tourism.

“If we can get more teams into this community and play at this facility, that’s just a positive for Rapid City all around,” Wick said. “The economic impact for it will be huge for Rapid City.”