Accessible ball diamond in Cambridge inching closer to becoming a reality

The City of Cambridge is another step closing to having its very own field of dreams.

City council has added a budget amendment to include $3-million in the 2025 spending plan to make upgrades to the Kin-1 softball diamond at Riverside Park.

Advocates had been delegating at council for months but the pressure really ramped-up after the funding was excluded from a draft budget presented to council last month.

Cambridge Ward 5 Councillor Sheri Roberts and Ward 3 Councillor Corey Kimpson presented the amendment that was ultimately approved. During earlier discussions, council had also committed to applying for grant money from The Jays Care Foundation. That could result in upwards of $150,000 for the project.

The $3-million from the city would cover half the costs and council intends to seek opportunities through sponsorships and grants to make-up the rest of the cost.

Once fully completed, the Kin-1 diamond would have fully accessible parking, stands, dugouts and an artificial infield that can accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. The funding would also allow for upgraded LED lighting, new fencing including a backstop and new accessible washroom facilities.

One of the most vocal advocates for the project was Cam Linwood. He’s the founder of Buddy League, an adaptive baseball program for kids and adults with various needs.

In a statement to 570 NewsRadio, Linwood said, “We deeply appreciate Councillors Roberts and Kimpson for introducing an amendment to the 2025 budget.” He went on to say, “At the heart of our Buddy League Challenger Baseball program is the vibrant community that makes it special. We’re eager to collaborate with the City to engage even more community members and bring our Field of Dreams to life. This marks a significant milestone toward realizing a fully accessible softball diamond in Cambridge.”

Council will vote on budget amendments later this month.