SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- A group of South Bend officials, state legislators, and common council members gathered Thursday morning for a groundbreaking ceremony to celebrate the improvements coming to the Byers Softball Complex.

“For the past 25 years, the Byers Softball Complex has been a vital part of South Bend’s southwest side in providing a fun, welcoming environment for athletes and families alike,” said Mayor James Mueller.

“The improvements coming to Byers will ensure that the facility continues to serve as a premier destination for softball in the region. I am grateful for the leadership of our state legislators who secured funding for this project.”

The city applied for and received a $3 million grant for improvements to the facility.

Those improvements include:

• Press box, concessions and restroom facilities improvements that meet ADA requirements
• Rebuilding all 4 main softball complex fields
• New entry plaza gateway
• New splashpad
• Two new batting cages
• Installation of historical signage to honor the complex’s legacy
• Removal of overgrown outfield shrubbery 

City officials say they worked with engineering firm DLZ to develop design plans to the facility, as well as the master plan for future development.

"R. Yoder Construction was awarded the project’s bid and will work to bring the facility back to prime conditions to attract more tournaments and a new splashpad for the community," a city spokesperson said.

The project’s construction is set to be completed by September.

“Byers has long been a cornerstone of South Bend’s recreation landscape,” said Executive Director of Venues Parks & Arts, Jordan Gathers.

“These improvements not only honor its legacy but also maintains it as it continues to serve the next generation of athletes and families.”

All spring and summer 2025 games will be temporarily located to Boehm Park field, Potawatomi Park field, and Boland Park field.

For more information on schedules, league information, and tournaments, check out the South Bend Venue Parks and Arts website.