Field of Dreams Stadium Project Nets Massive State Grant
The Field of Dreams has been ubiquitous in local headlines for the last few years, what with the MLB now holding annual contests at the field coupled with a massive construction project that is set to be underway very soon.
The project to build a permanent stadium at the iconic ballfield was awarded a massive $12 million state grant this week, per the Telegraph Herald. The City of Dyersville and This is Iowa Ballpark Inc. submitted a joint application to receive the Sports Tourism grant from the Iowa Economic Development Authority. The substantial amount of money will be instrumental into erecting the permanent stadium.
Last April, plans were released detailing This is Iowa Ballpark's planned project: a 3,000-seat stadium adjacent to the site prominently featured in the movie, Field of Dreams. The project is expected to cost more than $50 million.
Previously, the City of Dyersville was given a $12.5 million grant from the Destination Iowa program. The Dubuque County Board of Supervisors pledged an additional $5 million toward the stadium project, with Dubuque and Dyersville giving $1 million as well.
A new stadium is one of many projects set to commence at the iconic site. Reports last year revealed that sweeping capital improvements, in the form of nine new fields, a massive hotel, and an amphitheater for outdoor concerts could be in the works for Dyersville. The upgrades would position the Field of Dreams as an even bigger tourist attraction, and was thought to further incentivize the MLB to continue to hold one game a year at the ballpark.
In addition, plans were announced for a Field of Dreams TV series to start filming, although that project has been indefinitely delayed after several setbacks. In December, Universal Television declined a state grant for filming the show, leaving its future in doubt. That said, you can still spend a night or two at the Field of Dreams house if you desire!
Read more about the Field of Dreams stadium project receiving $12 million from the state of Iowa via the Telegraph Herald.