Players and coaches at the Jimmy Isaacson ball diamond in H.T. Custer Park could get relief from summer heat next season if the Galesburg City Council approves new dugouts at Monday’s 6 p.m. meeting.
The current concrete-block dugouts “do not provide adequate airflow for the players during the hot summer months,” according to the city’s bid recommendation.
Parks & Recreation Director Don Miles said the new steel-framed dugouts will be a significant improvement.
“On hot summer afternoons, players and coaches will have a more comfortable dugout with appropriate airflow to relieve them from some of the heat,” Miles told WGIL.
The council is expected to approve a $35,630 bid from Unlimited Sports Solutions of Waverly, Nebraska, for two steel-framed dugouts with metal roofs. An optional $6,580 for black vinyl chain-link fencing brings the total to $35,630.
City staff will demolish the old dugouts – leaving the slab – and install the new ones in spring 2026.
The project is part of ongoing upgrades to the field to attract more teams and tournaments. Recent improvements include a new backstop and netting, infield regrading for better drainage, and upcoming bullpen work. Galesburg American Legion Post 285 is also funding a new scoreboard before next season, according to Miles.
The council meets at 6 p.m. Monday at City Hall.
