On Tuesday, State Senator Dave Syverson (R-Cherry Valley) joined members of the Rockford Buddy and Allstar baseball teams to help break ground on two new adaptive baseball fields at Darryl F. Lindberg Park.

“This project is about making sure every kid has the chance to get on the field, be part of a team, and enjoy the game,” said Sen. Syverson. “It’s a big step forward for accessibility and inclusion in our community.”

The fields are designed specifically for athletes with disabilities. They will feature wheelchair-accessible dugouts, paved pathways leading directly to the diamonds, and inclusive amenities like accessible drinking fountains.

In addition to the baseball fields, the project will add a new pavilion, an expanded parking area, and a multi-use field for sports such as floor hockey, soccer, and flag football.

Sen. Syverson helped secure $500,000 in state funding to support the effort, known as Project Home Base.

For more information about the project or to learn how you can contribute, contact Lori Berkes-Nelson, Foundation Director for the Rockford Park District, at (815) 987-1675 or by email at loriberkes-nelson@rockfordparkdistrict.org.