McKechnie Field's designers earn award

BRADENTON - McKechnie Field's redevelopment won the Design Excellence award from the Florida Planning and Zoning Association (FPZA), according to a news release.

The redevelopment of the Pittsburgh Pirates' Spring Training facility and summer home exhibited superior form and function earning the ballpark the award, the organization said.

Fawley Bryant Architects and NDC Construction, respectively, designed and built the renovations.

The construction took place during the off-season to provide fan-friendly amenities and enhance McKechnie's appeal as a tourism destination, according to the release.

Completed by spring training this year, the redevelopment increased attendance by 20% over other league teams, according to Rick Fawley, president of Fawley Bryant, in the release.

“The new outfield boardwalk circumnavigates the stadium allowing patrons to just sit and relax or interact with the players in the bullpens,” Fawley says in the release. “Expanded concession areas in the Fan Plaza feature a variety of menu items and an upgraded sound system.”

Other additions include a Tiki bar on the boardwalk, new concessions and restrooms, infield seating with seats that flip up for better accessibility between rows and permanent roofs above infield seats.