Upgrades in the works for Delano-Hitch Stadium

By Lina Wu
Posted 9/11/19

Newburgh’s Delano-Hitch Stadium has been a hallmark of the city for many years. Delano-Hitch has been part of Newburgh’s rich baseball history since its opening in 1926. Over the years …

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Upgrades in the works for Delano-Hitch Stadium

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Newburgh’s Delano-Hitch Stadium has been a hallmark of the city for many years. Delano-Hitch has been part of Newburgh’s rich baseball history since its opening in 1926. Over the years the topic of renovation has been a frequent source of discussion. The topic of renovation was brought up once again at last Thursday’s City Council Planning meeting.

City Grants coordinator Victor Cornelius will be spearheading the project. The first grant application for $360,000 dollars has been submitted. The project will include replacing the lights, potentially installing security cameras, and more. The city council is hopeful that the project will be successful and the conditions of Delano-Hitch will improve.

The land for Delano-Hitch stadium was donated in 1916 by the aunt of Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Mrs. Annie Delano Hitch. The land was initially donated to be a “driving park.” In 1926, the stadium was opened. The stadium is used mainly for baseball. Since its opening, four professional teams have used the stadium as their base.

Recreational Department Director Derrick Stanton mentioned at Thursday’s meeting that Delano-Hitch is not in the same great condition it once was in. Some homeless individuals do stay at Delano-Hitch. In addition, Delano-Hitch does suffer from litter and graffiti.

Councilman Anthony Grice commented during the meeting, “we [the City Council] think it [the renovation project] will be something that gives our current residents a sense of pride, some equity and access to that area.”