Killian Softball Complex, Cooper Park to Receive Renovations

The Springfield City Council is considering a measure that would put millions of dollars in updates into several sports complexes in Springfield.

At a council meeting Monday, members heard a proposal for using $13.5 million on improvements for Cooper Park and Killian Softball Complex.

The money would come from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

The total cost of the project is an estimated $27.5 million, and would include new turf, bleachers, new concessions and restroom facilities, renovated parking lots and other improvements.

Much of the current facility at Cooper is the same as when the complex opened in the 80s.

If the full $27.5 million is approved, the funding would come from the following locations:

• ARPA funds- $13.5 million
• City General Fund- $5 million
• City’s ARPA- $7.3 million
• City’s Park Fund- $1 million
• Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau- $631,275

The council will hand down an official decision at its next meeting, August 21.