On Thursday, August 8, 2024, Jason Krumrey of Bellville Little League approached the Bellville Economic Development Corporation (EDC) seeking financial support for a significant upgrade to the league’s facilities. The Bellville Little League, renowned for its well-maintained facilities and strong community spirit, is set to replace the outdated lighting system at Sam Field to meet new safety and efficiency standards.

The current lighting system, featuring aged wooden poles and halogen lights, no longer meets Little League International’s requirements, which now prohibit wooden poles due to safety concerns. An inspection confirmed that a complete overhaul is necessary, prompting the league to propose the installation of durable concrete poles and energy-efficient LED lighting. The project also includes electrical and concrete modifications, along with the addition of security cameras.

Bellville Little League, hosts the district segment of the All-Star season annually and occasionally the sectional tournament. They have received awards such as “Best Baseball Field of the Year” in 2022 from the Texas Turf Grass Association. The league currently serves 576 young athletes and holds games every day of the week from February through June, drawing hundreds of families to the area and benefiting local businesses that supply necessary equipment and materials as well as eating establishments who are available to feed hungry athletes and their families.

The league received three bids for the lighting project, with quotes ranging from $72,000 to $176,395. After careful consideration, the executive committee chose to accept a bid from National LED, which offered a cost-effective solution including the donation of five new poles by Lonestar Pre-Stress, a local company. The total project cost from National LED is $115,940.

To fund this project, Bellville Little League has already secured $80,000 through various sources, including a $50,000 grant from the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) awarded last summer, $20,000 in donations from the Payton Family and the Mark Chapman Foundation, and $10,000 from their own savings. They approached the EDC to help cover the shortfall of $35,940. The EDC has agreed to contribute $35,000 towards the project, nearly meeting the league’s total financial need.

This investment by the Bellville EDC underscores the value placed on community sports and the role of the Little League in fostering local pride and economic activity. The upgrade promises to enhance the experience for players and spectators alike, ensuring that Bellville continues to host memorable and safe baseball and softball events for years to come.