Future of baseball in Reno linked to stadium’s condition

Monday, April 10, 2000 | 10:50 a.m.

They would like to see amenities like restaurants and shops added to the facility to help generate cash to rebuild the stadium.

The refurbishing began last fall when the Reno-Sparks Chamber of Commerce raised $100,000 to repave the parking lot. New restrooms were on the drawing board when the Blackjacks suddenly pulled up stakes and moved to Marysville, Calif.

Officials think it would take about $1 million to shore up the stadium with restrooms, new locker rooms, a kitchen and perhaps an additional 1,000 seats in addition to the current 1,500.

California League President Joe Gagliardi says that's wishful thinking.

He said the stadium is worn out and should be torn down and replaced. His estimated cost is $6 million-$8 million.

If the money were borrowed over 20 to 30 years, he said payments wouldn't be that outrageous. But Reno would have to find a sure thing to back those installations.

"If they come up with something and want to have a meeting, I'd fly up there immediately," said Gagliardi, who is based in San Jose.

Al Rogers, city recreation manager, said rents from shops and restaurants at minor league stadiums are one way to make the stadium an entertainment center and draw more people.

Nationwide, other minor league stadiums are adopting this strategy to raise money for improvements. "It's a hefty investment. I don't know if the community is willing to do that," Rogers said.

But he agrees that Moana is not worth renovating.

"Raze this place and build a brand-new facility," he said.

Reno City Council has put reopening the stadium for baseball on its priority list.

This summer, the ballpark will be used for adult and recreation games.