SBT: Big changes envisioned for Coveleski

SOUTH BEND — City planners are envisioning a $30 million to $40 million upgrade to Coveleski Stadium, in and around the ballpark, while vowing the costs won’t come from general fund money.

Rather, the Luecke administration would fund the improvements with professional sports development fund and tax increment financing district revenue, the mayor told Common Council members Monday.

Inside the stadium, the upgrades would range from the mundane, such as renovating restrooms and updating the 23-year-old facility’s heating, cooling and lighting systems, to the dramatic, including new seating and outfield picnic areas, and a park-like centerfield entrance.

Bill Schalliol, city economic development planner, recently has presented the ideas to the city’s park board and redevelopment commission. On Monday he pitched the concept to the council’s parks and recreation committee, while noting the administration is not now seeking any appropriation of city money.

ALL this in a city that still owes 9 million for the college football hall of fame…