A new project could soon bring an adaptive baseball field to Johnstown, giving children with disabilities the chance to play the sport.
City Council is reviewing a proposal for a Miracle League Park.
Tyann Bell attended the city council workshop this evening and tells us about a proposal for a Miracle League Park at Roxbury ark.
The Miracle League of Cambria County is hoping to transform a portion of Roxbury Park into a state of the art, fully accessible Baseball Field.
Their mission? To make sure that every child, no matter their abilities, gets to experience the thrill of the game.
But before that can happen, they need city approval to lease the land.
The proposed project would be part of the Nationwide Miracle League Initiative, which promotes the construction of specialized Baseball Fields specifically made for kids who use wheelchairs or walkers.
There are already 13 such complexes in Pennsylvania, including in Altoona and Pittsburgh.
“It’s a fully adaptive field where they can run the bases just like any other ball player.”
If approved, fundraising will begin throughout 2025, with plans to break ground in early 2026.
Games could begin as soon as Summer or Fall of 2026, and worst case scenario, by Spring 2027.
The league will fundraise for construction and ongoing costs, ensuring the city faces no financial burden.
Games would be played throughout the Spring, Summer, and early Fall, up to seven days a week, depending on demand.
Best of all, participation for players would be completely free.
Security and accessibility are also key considerations.
Organizers say the field and playground will be well lit, monitored by 24/7 security cameras, and will actually increase available parking by adding 12 regular spaces and 41 handicap accessible spots.
“It’s very important for a lot of the children with disabilities to be able to get out and do things that other kids may be doing out there, getting them out in the field for exercise,
just a sense of achievement, the ability to play baseball, to be able to run the bases and be wheelchair around the bases, whatever the particulars may be, but being a part of a team.”
The project still needs the city council’s approval, but organizers are optimistic.
If all goes as planned, construction will start next year, and soon, children of all abilities will be able to enjoy America’s favorite pastime right here in Johnstown.