Grand Park Investing in AstroTurf

The 400-acre complex features more than 50 fields.

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Grand Park in Westfield is investing $2.5 million to install artificial turf on its baseball and softball fields. Mayor Andy Cook says the move will mean fewer weather-related interruptions during tournaments.

In all, the turf is being installed on the infield of 18 diamonds. Park leaders say at least eight baseball diamonds will be finished by the end of 2017, with the rest set to be complete in 2018.

Grand Park’s 26 baseball and softball fields are managed by Bullpen Tournaments. Vice President Blake Hibler believes the venue will be the only complex in the country with 26 total synthetic diamonds, which he says creates "a destination where baseball truly matters."

In September, Grand Park opened the Game On esports center. At the time, Game On Chief Visionary Officer Rick Barretto called the effort "a new frontier in entertainment, education and competition.