Miracle League fields are designed with a rubberized surface that is wheelchair accessible for children with physical and cognitive disabilities. Bases and pitching mounds are painted on the surface to eliminate the presence of the raised obstacles that are present on a traditional ball field.
Southgate City Councilmember Ed Gawlik Jr. said the Parks and Recreation Commission is investigating funding sources to provide a Miracle League field, which is designed to allow children with disabilities access to a baseball field.
By SUE SUCHYTA
Sunday Times Newspapers
SOUTHGATE – The Parks and Recreation Commission hopes to find funding for an accessible baseball field, City Councilmember Ed Gawlik Jr. said during the April 17 council meeting.
Miracle League fields are designed with a rubberized surface to allow access to children with physical and cognitive challenges. Bases and the pitcher’s mound are painted onto the rubberized surface to eliminate the raised obstacles present in traditional fields.
“It’s specifically designed to remove barriers and create an inclusive play experience for all children,” he said.
Gawlik said the project would cost $1.5 million, and city stakeholders are actively looking for funding sources, with $300,000 earmarked for the project already.
“Anytime you hear about Miracle Fields, we would be the only one Downriver,” he said. “The closest one now is in Southfield.”