Yulee Little League
86118 Goodbread Road
Yulee, FL 32097
Dear League Families,
The Board of County Commissioners has been made aware of concerns expressed by many of you and as such, we feel it is important that the County provides some information about all the wonderful ballpark improvements that are currently underway.
The Board recognizes the importance of recreation and has allocated significant funding to improve both the capacity of the park system and the quality of the community’s facilities. One example that our ballpark parents will appreciate is the installation or replacement of 29 shade structures and bleacher pads across the various parks. County staff has an ambitious goal to complete the shade and bleacher project in time for opening day of the spring seasons. Specifically related to the current activities at the Yulee Ballpark, approximately $200,000 has been allocated to improve the facility. These improvements include, among others, painting and repairs to the press boxes; painting of the dugouts, concession stand, and pump house; as well as new netting and fencing [backstops].
As to not interrupt League activities at the Yulee Ballpark, County staff elected to wait to make the repairs in the fall, following the completion of the League’s spring season. I have had regular communication with the new Yulee Little League President about the improvements. Unfortunately, this communication may not have been received by all members of the community and may have led to the dissemination of misinformation amongst community members.
Each sports league that operates from a County facility is required, per their Facility Use Agreement, to notify the County of their intent to hold League activities. Unfortunately, Yulee Little League failed to notify the County of their intent to operate a fall baseball season until August 31, 2023. At that point, construction activities had already commenced to improve the facility.
Despite this, upon learning about the league’s opening day, County staff made every effort to remedy the situation, including a solution to postpone opening day or to install a temporary fence. The League President agreed that installation of a temporary fence was a viable solution.
Everyone involved including parents, League volunteers, and County staff have the same goal to create a great experience for our youth athletes. The Parks Department is working diligently to complete improvements at the park, while allowing for league activities to still take place. In the spirit of open communication, additional construction activity is scheduled over the coming months. While those improvements may cause a temporary inconvenience, the upgrades are necessary.
Should you have any questions regarding the Yulee Ballpark improvements, I urge you to contact me. The County is dedicated to improving its parks and providing park users with everything they need to succeed. However, communication is always key to ensuring that everyone has a full understanding of the events that are taking place. I can be reached at (904) 530-6120 or via email at jrobertson@nassaucountyfl.com.
-Jay Robertson
Parks & Recreation Director