IDEAS NEEDED!!

Approximate location of proposed indoor batting cages.

This project is made up of ideas submitted by people just like you who love the sport of baseball. Some of the ideas we receive are not possible on the field design at this time, but might be some day.

We have had ideas submitted such as an irrigation system that waters down the baseline paths between games. Water line in the dugouts, power and water supply behind the pitchers mound, and recessed storage area for the umpires to keep game balls, water, or items needed in the officiating of games. These are just a few of the things people have suggested. These ideas are what we need to make this the best park in little league use around Idaho.

It is the ideas coming from people like you, that make this a facility that will be used and appreciated well into the future.

We have many ideas, some still need to be put on paper and drafted by the Engineer. Other ideas, like our outfield display system, are being incorporated as soon as possible, and still others are just worth mentioning before we even get them off the ground. One of these is our proposed indoor batting cage (approximate location indicated above in blue). Approximately 2 - 1/2 times the size of the current batting cage in use now, this structure will house two separate batting cages and have limited lighting with some seating for parents and athletes. Heating is not an option at this time, but could be someday depending on donations.

The purpose of this facility is to better train our kids in the skills of placing the bat correctly for a powerful drive of the ball. Improving bat to ball/ hand to eye coordination is key to improving our kid's skills and abilities and staying competitive when playing the teams from out of town. Ever wonder why East Boise has such good hitters? They have access to indoor batting cages the year around! (and you can bet they use it!)

In light of this new Kuna facility with proposed indoor batting cage, it is interesting to note that with the new 225' fields (with warning track) it will be that much harder to hit home runs out of this park! The new fields also have an eight foot outfield fence to get over.

If our kids are conditioned to hit the balls out this park it could give them a distinct advantage over unsuspecting visitor teams, not to mention the boost of confidence they will have with the added benefit of improved batting skills.

Bad weather would no longer be a problem when our kids start up in March, and with the addition of these cages they can have more access and time at batting practices.

Coaches will appreciate the fact that they don't have to pack up the pitching machines anymore, and can leave them locked up in the building! If approved, this structure could be built within the next two years. We are working on it.

Okay folks, honestly, that is a big idea, but any ideas are the kind we are looking for. Please send any you have into us, and we will happily contact you!

Thank you for your time.

TRAFFIC SAFETY IS ON IT'S WAY!!

We all want what is right and safe for our kids. This wouldn't be as obvious except for the fact that we have them in an after school program such as baseball, and that alone can help to attest to the fact that we want what is best for them.

But what about safety? When we drop our kids off in the parking lot and watch them run across the street to the park, do we worry for their safety? During games, when their siblings run back to the parking lot or to the restroom across the street - do we look for any cars that might be racing down the road because we worry for our kids safety?

In the eight years that I have been around this baseball park at this time of year, I have witnessed many close calls concerning a child and a car. I know that I am not the first parent to be concerned with these near misses, and I don't want to take credit for being the bell ringer on this issue - but non the less, it is an issue that should be addressed.

We normally try to keep this site with an accent on humor, and basically just make light of the project since we are all volunteers. However, this subject of safety concerning the cars and crossing the street is one we take seriously, as any parent would.

At this time, we are beginning the first stages on the temporary use permit (including construction and installation) of the barricades that will be in place on Second Street when some of you return for baseball next year. These barricades are designed with both the pedestrian and vehicle safety in mind. They will be placed at the intersections of Ave. A and Ave. B along Second Street.

I think that these barricades require some explanation of their use and storage in this unique facility. First, let me say that getting the permission granted to install these was no easy task. Sealing off traffic on a public street is not something ACHD takes lightly. However, after several explanations and demonstrations of the traffic (and our inability to contain parking and speeders in the area). They have given us the preliminary go ahead (with conditions).

Following our approval on the temporary use permit, we will need to construct the barricades according to the drafted and safety depicted manner in which they were presented to ACHD. What this means, is simply a design that can be as fool proof as a set structure can be - without human intervention.

The barricades are designed to be safe to the flow of traffic when either closed or open. They will incorporate a mechanism that allows them to be held in the closed position. When in use, a detent lock mechanism will force each barricade into a "resting in use" position of 90 degrees to the edge of the road. Holding the device at 90 degrees would help to insure "jousting" would not occur with an oncoming vehicle. Should the barricade arm become unlocked and swing into the street - 90 degrees is preferable, 22 - 45 degrees would be catastrophic. The detent is designed that if a collision were to occur with a vehicle at a resonable speed (20 mph max) while the barricade is in use, the barricade apparatus would be propelled away from the collision reducing damage to both the vehicle and the barricade itself.

While stored (under normal circumstances) the barricade would be locked, and could only be used during game times or other events included on the yearly certified use permit (C.U.P.). As serious as this sounds, it is just some of the dedication we will need to show the people of ACHD when it comes to allowing the use of these important devices. It is our kids who need this protection, and we will continue to promote the safety of this facility by using the barricades with respect to traffic and other users of 2nd street in the park.

Of course every permit comes with conditions, and this one is no different. Albeit unique, it is in the hands of ACHD and possibly the City Parks Department to monitor abuse or neglect of the barricades. They are granting us the chance to show we can use them appropriately. However, if that is proven to be a bad choice, the devices are designed to be permanently locked or even removed.

I know that in the future, as new familys use the facility and become members of the baseball or community softball association that will use the park, we can guarantee our kids that we will continue to provide them with a safe park facility, and the barricades will continue to be maintained and used properly by these organizations.

That is the deal, that is what they are telling us and we should listen. A lot of work went into the design and function of these barricades, so it would be a shame to lose them. Dedication from the parents attending the games and events in the park will secure the future of these needed safety barricades, and that dedication is all we need. To show respect of others in the park when using these traffic devices, and responsibility for the devices when not using them.

But hey, enough of this downer factual stuff! Here are three of the many artist's rendering of the barricades as they were presented to the Engineers at ACHD. I apologize, but we do not have a finished engineer draft for this. If you have any questions please email me, I would be happy to answer your concerns.

Thank you,

Walt Douglas

Director, Kuna Baseball Park Redevelopment Committee

walt.kbprc@dishmail.net

PLEASE ADD YOUR INPUT ON NEW DUGOUTS!

Floor plan of dugout. Floor area is 30 x 6.5'

Stairs are 3' wide, with 2' deep bench.

The design for the dugouts that are to be installed at the 2nd St. Park in Kuna is nearing completion. These dugouts are permanent structures to be constructed of concrete, and equipped with all of the latest convenience that we could think of - at least everything that was legal- and needed on a day of baseball or softball! We hope that all of the attention to this will be appreciated when anyone is using the dugouts while playing during the hot days of summer.

We are asking that any ideas on improving this design be submitted by anyone who wants to get their name on a piece of Kuna history. Maybe when you were a kid, you saw something or thought of something that you thought would have been a great idea in your town's dugout. Maybe something you saw at another field that you thought was unique, anything that can help add to the "state of the art" nature of these structures. These are only going to be built once, and once the plans are submitted and approved, we can't change them. So please, if you can think of anything, please let us know.

The dugouts were designed by Architecture Designs Plus of Boise, and engineering by JUB. Plans were laid out for the dugouts and drafted twice, with the latest changes coming three months ago to accommodate adult community softball. The KBPRC drew the initial drafts, which called for a dugout of smaller proportions. With adults to consider, we have expanded the dugouts to include an area of 30' long with an additional depth of 6.5'.

The dugouts have a bat/ helmet rack, complete with extended bench and water supply for drinking. Lighting compliments the interior, with two lights that are master controlled by the concessions area (a separate switch is provided in the dugout). There is room for storage of equipment, and plenty of seating for all of the players. For protection of the people in the dugouts, there is a gate at each "home plate" end to deflect balls from entering the player seating areas. Handrails provide safe ingress and egress of the stairs on each side, and a sump pump is connected to a main floor drain in the event of heavy rain or irrigation flooding.

** There is a consideration of having one stair well in place per dugout. That is still being considered. However, if only one stair well is provided it will be wider than the three feet width of the twin stairs we are planning right now. Interestingly enough, the stairs and the actual dugout structure are two different plans, so we can change them as needed - up to the final approval for the permit.

The dugout is constructed entirely of concrete, and is complete with a "cast in place" roof. The objective of the in ground dugout is to provide a cooler area for players. Being in ground also provides a lower profile above ground. It is this low profile that allows us to promote the viewing area of the facility as not having a bad seat in the place!

Directly behind the dugouts will be the bleachers. These are easy access covered bleachers, and intended to provide more seating capacity than is currently offered. The covering will provide further protection for the audience while at the same time providing some shade and protection from inclement weather. Constructed alongside of the bleachers will be the ADA "viewing pads". These pads are for the intent of allowing anyone with limited mobility, the opportunity to sit next to their family in the bleachers and enjoy the games. With the dugouts being low profile, everyone will be able to see over them (no blocked views - anywhere!)

There is still time to add on any last minute ideas to the dugouts if you can think of any. Please let us know of any ideas you have on this (or any part of the park design). We will respond as soon as possible with an answer to your concerns.

walt.kbprc@dishmail.net

Thank you!

THIS PROJECT SPONSORED BY COMMUNITY PRIDE!

We are proud to announce the sponsorship of this project is moving along smoothly. It is a positive influence on the community, and when started in June 2009, the project will begin a new phase of baseball and park redevelopment that has been long overdue.

It is a community project funded entirely by local support. We are proud of this direction, and know that when completed, the community of Kuna can say that the new park was part of a joint effort of the parents and kids who use the facility, along with the businesses and organizations that represent the Treasure Valley. We like to call it a "community bailout". No government dollars here!

So if your interested in a sponsorship pledge - we still have our number one seller available, the outfield billboards are selling quickly. These 4 x 8' outfield signs are promising a unique, attention getting method of promoting all of our sponsors. We intend to project the signs eight feet above the outfield fence, creating not only an obstacle of intimidating proportions for people to hit home runs over, but also a great projection of the company logos that will be displayed up there as well.

This display system is unique to this park, and will supply not only exposure during Little League Games, but also during any community events using the facility. From softball to fundraisers, barbecues to carnivals, Kuna Days, and even some performances using the concession and field area as an amphitheater, the exposure and advertising return for your investment would be significant. You would also have the pride of knowing you sponsored a good community project, and your company logo would be proudly displayed.

Since the 4 x 8' is our most popular item, I can tell you that they are going at a cost of $600.00 for a term of three years. That is a one time payment, but we also offer payment agreements. The term includes proper storage of the sign during off season (November - February) unless otherwise requested. The price also includes the sign (we pay for the sign) you don't have to supply anything. We will meet with you and design the sign to your approval, or you can supply the logo of your choice. The three year time frame starts from the first season of display - not from the time you make the agreement. All of these transactions are protected by contract and will be maintained by the Kuna Baseball Park Redevelopment Committee.

So what do you have to lose? It is for a great cause, we do all of the work and seek your approval on the final product, plus we handle all of the maintenance. And if you like, we offer payment arrangements for your convenience. Including high visibility, this truly is the best deal in town for advertising!

We also offer other very exciting advertising packages for your company or organization's logo. Please feel free to contact any one of our sponsorship representatives -  Todd, Frank, or Walt by email at walt.kbprc@dishmail.net

We would be glad to send you a presentation and our pricing. We can also give a presentation to your company if you prefer.

The Kuna Baseball Park Redevelopment Committee is a licensed, registered and insured 501 (c) 3 non profit organization.

Thank you

Here is some motivation!

Since we aren't working on the ramp right now, we would like to show more of the new planned concession building. There isn't very much detail showing on our sign in the park, so we decided to show it here and list the user friendly options we are planning for it. These are just some of the many different angles and looks of the building's exterior. On that note, this is only a representation of the building and it's surroundings. The field layout is just an example, however - it is interesting how some people perceive Kuna. (Note all of the stake bed trucks in the parking lot, you gotta love that country living!)

Incorporating safety into the concession building

With the appreciation that new people will operate it on a daily basis, the concession building has been designed and is being outfitted with many user friendly compliments. It is also our intent to equip it for use by individual organizations to use during fund raising or other activities in the park. The building will be set up for vendors to serve restaurant quality products, with prep area standard for a quality concession building. Along with proper preparation by new volunteers using the facility on any given day, most of these considerations are being incorporated to encourage food safety.

Some of the amenities included in the design are:

Isolated dual 3/4" electric grill and plate with vent system. The advantage of this, is the safety and uniform cooking that is the consistent quality produced by this appliance. The 3/4" grill allows for quicker cooking times without burning, and the 3/4" plate allows for a more uniform cooking area due to it's lack of "warping" during the heating and cooling of the high heat process.

Food cook timers for uniform cooking and product consistency.

Three tier food preparation sink, including a separate hand washing sink with instant water heater technology to counter "half motion hand washing".

Freezer, and commercial beverage refrigeration unit.

Dry stock storage and racks.

Food preparation area and counter tops with food warming lamps.

Separate serving window/ area.

Well lit interior, with commercial lighting fixtures.

Fire suppression system.

Optional storage and display area for basic sale items (hats, shirts, stickers, etc.)

Lockable entrance door.

Ergo mats.

Floor drains.

The bathrooms are to be ADA compliant with rails and easy access stalls.

The bathrooms will incorporate water saver technology and skylights to cut down on power consumption. Hot water is also provided via an instant water heater.

Along the outside wall of the concession building will be ADA compliant drinking fountains at required heights of 30 and 36".

The Concession Building also offers ample storage for the maintenance of the facility. A storage area, measuring 16 x 40' with lockable roll up door entrance and separate single door access is included. This storage is constructed completely separate of the food preparation area, and no access is provided between the two different parts of the facility.

The storage section offers lights and divided shelving for everything from limestone chalk, weed killer and fertilizer, to gasoline and any machines if needed. There is also a large area for the storage of the outfield placards and the backstop netting material between seasons.

Along the outside walls of the facility are the placement of our lifetime appreciation placards. These placards are to be presented to the organizations that stepped up and helped with the building of this facility when we needed them the most.

Construction on this building could start in the spring of next year, with the installation of the footings and block walls. Once the building is "sealed" with the trusses and roofing, we can begin the interior work and follow with installation of the bathrooms with the plumbing and electrical. Most of the interior work would be performed throughout the year.

We would like to thank the Architectural Firm of Glenn Walker at Architecture Designs Plus of Boise for the design of this building. The engineering was handled by JUB Engineers and we couldn't have done it without them.

THANK YOU - Glenn and Robert!!

Not included in the design, is the planned covered tables we hope to install in the concession arena.

Next time, we are going to post the design of our planned dugouts, these dugouts are really going to rock! For now we hope you enjoy the plan of the concession building. Thank you for your interest.

Okay, what's going on with the ADA Ramp?

Day one - you don't know what you're in for!!

A lot of people are asking why we stopped working on the ramp.  We stopped working on it simply because of the rain. The rain has been such a huge factor in keeping us from completing the grade work, that we have had to wait for things to dry out. 

We thought we would throw on these old pictures of when we all showed up with high hopes of getting the ADA project done real quick. Being a volunteer is fun, you not only get to work with many different people of all walks and interests, but you really get to know what a person is capable of at the same time. The out pouring of community support towards this project has been great, and the way people show up to work in the worst of weather conditions has been an inspiration. A huge thank you to all of them. 

One thing the rain has taught us in this, is where we will need more drainage and a possible installation of a culvert east of the ramp. 

After several down pours and one pump out of the trench on the east side of the ramp, it was obvious to us where the water was coming from. It was coming from the rocks below grade - fissures in the rocks were allowing water to seep under the footings in the east trench.

Hopefully a longer pipe, or concrete culvert installed uphill from the trench will cure that problem. 

The rain has slowed down quite a bit, and activity  should resume on the site real soon. If you want to get your hands dirty on a really good community project, we could always use the help.  We are an EOO  (equal opportunity organization). We let everyone get dirty!

Back fill is getting "tampered" with!

The backfill on the retaining walls is going great. We had to put in over sixty yards of back fill material in the hole. Doing it in stages with the tamper running constantly, can take a toll on your and everyone else's ears! Thanks to a generous donation of material from Busy Bee Sand and Gravel - along with the donated delivery of material by Ray Russell, everything went smoothly. The back fill was directed and moved by Skip and Jesse Hoseley using their skid steer loader, with supervision duties by Jerry Gibson of Kuna. All of the compacting was handled by the KBPRC with a compactor donated by the Rental Connection in Kuna. The Rental Connection has been a major contributor to this project - with equipment donations and generous allowance of the time the equipment is used. We owe them a huge thank you!
The next stage is cleaning up the concrete walls and rolling the 3/4 road mix for the asphalt paving of the parking area. We are hoping to pave the parking lot area sometime next week, providing the weather cooperates. Installation of the ramp and pad concrete flat work will follow shortly after that, with the painting of the crosswalk and the parking spaces soon after. Signs and curbing will be the last step on this part of the project, and then it is off to the barricade installation!
We are also expecting to install a sidewalk and curb along the south side of Second St that runs the length of the ballpark (no time frame on that yet). We are planning to grade the bank along Second Street above the park and install a retaining wall in that area. Of course, all of these improvements are designed to add to the safety of the park, and we will keep you posted right here on the progress.
Thank you for following our project! To all of our supporters and sponsors - THANK YOU!! What a great community project this has become!

HOME DEPOT

"The Community Building Store"

The KBPRC would like to thank the Home Depot for their support. At the Home Depot, they believe in more than being just another building in the community. They believe in building the community!