Press Releases

BUFFALO, N.Y. —Congressman Tim Kennedy (D-NY) and Buffalo Common Council President Christopher Scanlon were joined by leadership from the South Buffalo Baseball Association and the Buffalo Bisons, and members of the local community to cut the ribbon on the newly renovated Okell Park in South Buffalo. Following the ribbon cutting, Kennedy threw the first pitch at the Association’s first game at their newly rebuilt home field. The project, funded with $4.6 million secured by Kennedy during his time as a State Senator, includes new synthetic turf, as well as revamped and relocated baseball and t-ball diamonds, along with upgraded drainage and utilities. Other highlights include field lighting, new pathways, and a scoreboard. Future planned and funded improvements include modifications to the concession building, a batting pavilion, fencing, as well as the renovation of the nearby playground.

“With these improvements, Okell Park’s facilities rival those of any other youth baseball facility in the region,” said Congressman Tim Kennedy. “The kids playing in the South Buffalo Baseball Association can be proud of their home park and can take advantage of new amenities, giving them the best experience possible. I was thrilled at the opportunity to secure this funding during my time as a State Senator, and I’m even happier to see the finished result.”

"The newly-renovated Okell Park stands as a shared testament to our commitment to providing our community’s youth with top-notch recreational facilities," said Buffalo Common Council President Christopher P. Scanlon. "With these state-of-the-art amenities, we’re not only preserving the rich history of the South Buffalo Baseball Association but also paving the way for its future growth and the kids who play in the South Buffalo Baseball Association. I want to thank Congressman Kennedy for his advocacy in ensuring funding is secured for this project and I look forward to seeing our young athletes thrive in this incredible space."

“After 5 years of planning, witnessing the completion of this project is truly remarkable,” said South Buffalo Baseball Association President Joe Insera. “The South Buffalo Baseball Association's Board of Directors, coaches, players, volunteers, and fans extend heartfelt thanks to Congressman Tim Kennedy, Mayor Byron Brown, and Council President Chris Scanlon and the City of Buffalo Department of Public Works for their unwavering commitment, dedication, and support towards this project. The renovations at Okell Park will offer our local children the opportunity to play baseball and softball, fostering a sense of pride in our home field for many years to come. We are dedicated to the growth and development of our players. Whether you

played here 30 years ago, 3 years ago, are an active member within our organization or are simply a neighbor, this is an exciting time for our community!”

“I want to congratulate Congressman Kennedy, Mayor Brown, Council President Scanlon, and the South Buffalo Baseball Association on the completion of this fabulous baseball and softball facility. Over the years, Okell Park is where thousands of kids learned to play the great game of baseball and now with the vision of Congressman Kennedy, that important tradition will not only continue, but will thrive for many decades to come,” said Bisons President Mike Buczkowski.

For more than a half century, South Buffalo Baseball Association has fielded an opportunity for neighborhood children to learn and play baseball. Including their 15 house and 7 travel teams with ages ranging from 6-15, approximately 300 kids play baseball with the organization. With these new facilities, that number is poised to grow.

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