Populous to design Minnesota Twin’s spring training facility in US

Architectural firm Populous has been selected by the Lee County Commission in the US to design a $42.5m renovation project of the Minnesota Twin’s spring training facility including Hammond Stadium.

Hammond Stadium currently hosts the Minor League Fort Myers Miracle and the Minnesota Twins.

The renovation of the stadium will expand the facility’s seating capacity to 9,300 from the current 8,000.

As per the plans, Hammond Stadium field will be reconfigured to match the dimensions of the Twins home ballpark, Target Field, which is also designed by Populous.

Plans also include upgraded concession services, restroom renovations, seating improvements, a new retail store, a 360-degree boardwalk area in the outfield, new group areas and press box renovations.

The project will also feature the addition of a new residential Twins Academy for players and staff, a new practice field, clubhouse renovations, a new parking area and a field as well as training area.

Populous principal Bruce Miller said Hammond Stadium is synonymous with the Twins and Spring Training baseball in Lee County.

"These renovations will ensure thousands of fans will continue to experience Twins Spring Training right here at Hammond Stadium for decades to come," Miller said.

Construction on the project is scheduled to start in April 2014 and is anticipated to be completed in time for spring training 2015.

Manhattan Twins Joint Venture, which is a partnership between Manhattan Construction, Chris-Tel Construction and Casey Construction, will be responsible for the construction works.

---

Image: The renovation project will see the seating capacity of Hammond Stadium expanded from 8.000 to 9,300. Photo: Kvhuegel.