Founders Park Set for Major Renovation Ahead of 2027 Season
The Islamorada Village Council and the school board have given the green light to a $3.8 million renovation of the Founders Park baseball field, a project that will reshape the venue ahead of the 2027 season.
The overhaul will bring new artificial turf, modern dugouts and upgraded fencing, all designed to boost safety and cut long‑term maintenance expenses.
The agreement follows years of negotiations and a joint meeting that sought to settle disputes over who would manage the facility and how it would be maintained.
Councilwoman Anna Richards said the improvements are about more than just the playing surface; they are about protecting the kids who will use the field.
Former coach Doug Mientkiewicz recalled the challenges of keeping a natural grass field healthy in the Keys’ humid climate, a factor that helped push the shift to synthetic material.
Village Manager Ron Saunders added that the new surface will not create additional financial burdens for the municipality, and he fielded questions from Jamie Engel about the exact upkeep costs.
Rich Russell took the opportunity to thank both council members and school board officials for their collaborative effort on the initiative.
Under the terms of the agreement, the school district will shoulder the expense of the upgrades, allowing the village to focus on other community needs.
Local officials say the upgraded field will provide a reliable venue for youth leagues, school teams and community events, reinforcing Islamorada’s reputation as a hub for amateur baseball in the region.