Elgin OKs softball field upgrade costs

Despite a final bill that was double the original -- albeit early -- estimate, Elgin city leaders Wednesday night approved $711,000 for stadium renovations for the Chicago Bandits softball team.

The home opener for the women's fastpitch team is June 6 and the work at Judson University in Elgin is about 80 percent complete.

Improvements for the team's three-year stay there include: bleachers for 2,000; a press box; dugouts; field improvements; and air conditioning for a dorm that will house players.

Assistant City Manager Sean Stegall said the $350,000 estimate was made toward the end of the city's budget cycle and poor soil conditions led to most of the increases.

"(Council members) had points to where they could have changed direction but still felt it was a good project at that (higher) amount," Stegall said.

The difference will come from casino revenues.

Council member Mike Powers said the team's presence and other regional tournaments at the Judson field would bring millions to the local economy. Powers noted the Bandits team was being a good corporate citizen by using Elgin firms.

"They're spending money here already," he said.

At the end of this year's season, city officials will evaluate whether there's enough interest to erect a 4,400-seat stadium by 2011 at the Spartan Meadows Golf Course.

Bill Conroy, the Bandits owner and general manager, credited elected city leaders, Judson officials and business leaders for embracing the team.

"It's a win for the city and its people, a win for Judson and a win for the Bandits. I couldn't be happier with the situation, the support we've received," he said, noting the team's prior home field put the team in the middle of a tug-of-war between Benedictine University, which owned the field, and the village of Lisle.

Conroy said team officials have partnered with local restaurants, hotels and other businesses for catering and scholarships.

For more information, call (877) 722-3648 or visit www.chicagobandits.com.