Wednesday, August 10, 2016

Bradenton Marauders to get new scoreboard in 2017

In 2013, McKechnie Field, home of the Bradenton Marauders, was given a massive renovation. A tiki bar was added as well as new seats in left field and a 360 concourse allowing fans to walk the entire stadium. The only part of the park that was not upgraded was the scoreboard.

According to an article in Bradenton Herald from late July, McKechnie Field will get its new scoreboard before the 2017 season.
A new $1 million scoreboard at McKechnie Field moved closer to reality on Wednesday when Bradenton officials approved an interlocal agreement with the Pittsburgh Pirates.
The article states the funds were not available during the initial renovations, but are now. The cost of the project will be paid for by the Tourist Development Council of Manatee County.
The Pirates will pay for the scoreboard and then be reimbursed by the TDC. Callahan said there is no expectation the city will incur any costs, as the estimate should fully cover the project, but the agreement was needed to move it forward.

“This is being paid for by resort tax money and shouldn’t cost the city a dime,” said Mayor Wayne Poston.
Attendance at McKechnie Field, both Spring Training and Minor Leagues, increased considerably in 2013. While the Marauders attendance has dropped in 2014 and 2015, Pirates Spring Training attendance increased again in 2014 until decreasing in 2015 and 2016.

The Marauders attendance might be attributable to the McKechnie Field renovations, however, Pirates Spring Training is more likely a response to the team making the playoffs in 2013-2015 after missing the playoffs for 21 years.