EVANSVILLE, IN (WFIE) -
On Wednesday, following months of study and debate, the Evansville Parks board unanimously voted to approve Mayor Lloyd Winnecke's recommendation to tear down Roberts Stadium and turn the site into green space.
The 5-0 vote followed a series of public comments at the meeting, both for and against the plan. A few of residents hoped for a one-year trial period, wanting the building to stay. But in the end, the mayor says tearing it down and turning the land into green space is what's best financially for the city.
Two weeks ago, the mayor made his recommendation. He said the decision was made after months of studying and brainstorming the potential options, and based on data that showed keeping the building would be too expensive.
The plan will cost an estimated $6 million. It includes tearing down Roberts stadium and turning the site into green space.
The proposed 37 acre "Roberts Park" would feature a fitness area, a dog park, a bike trail, and a walking trail.
Winnecke tells 14 News the longer Roberts Stadium sits in poor condition, the more money it costs the city.
Some features of the old stadium will be saved. The stadium seats would be transported to Mesker Park, and bricks from the building would be sold as souvenirs.
However some at today's meeting still didn't like that idea. One person said it was like selling "the body while it's still alive."
Many residents on Wednesday spoke of their memories of the old stadium. The mayor assured everyone that new memories will soon be created.
"I would hope that also part of the park is that we build a tribute to Roberts Stadium inside the park," Winnecke said.
"What I want to think about is not the last 50 years of memories but what will we create for the next 50 years," said Jay Ritter, Interim President of the Board of Park Commissioners.
The board will meet again, to further discuss a timeline for the plan on July 2nd.
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Packed house for parks board meeting.
Public voices opinions on Roberts Stadium at Parks Board meeting
