BETHLEHEM, Pa. — Nitschmann Middle School's softball team as soon as next month could have its own "lion's den" at a field about a mile away from campus.
Bethlehem Area School Board reported Monday that the team has rented practice space elsewhere for some time because there's no such facility at the school at 909 W. Union Blvd.
But a space at 11th Avenue and Spring Street in West Bethlehem could be a game-changer, officials said.
And since Calypso Elementary is just a block away from the field at Spring Street, board officials said they also see the space working well for that school's physical education programs and other events.
The topic is scheduled as an agenda item for action at the school board’s Feb. 26 meeting.
'A win-win'
BASD Chief Facilities and Operations Officer Mark Stein said Monday at a school board facilities meeting that discussions with the city continue regarding specifics of the agreement.
“So the city is looking for some assistance; we’re looking for a field,” Stein said. “So it’s a match made in heaven — a win-win.”
“I’m excited that the neighborhood gets to see that property sort of activated again, and [it’s] a great fit for Nitschmann and Calypso to both have more field space to utilize,”Bethlehem Area School District Board member Karen Beck-Pooley
To make the partnership happen, Stein said some short-term work and “TLC” from the school district would be required, including keeping the infield and outdoor mowed, flat and safe for the kids.
As for long-term maintenance, Stein said officials envision dugouts, concession stands, a press box and other structures to go up on site at some point.
“I’m excited that the neighborhood gets to see that property sort of activated again, and [it’s] a great fit for Nitschmann and Calypso to both have more field space to utilize,” school board member Karen Beck-Pooley said.
