Winona State University has withdrawn its request to the City of Winona to make improvements to Bambenek Field 2 at East Lake Park.
“Our intent was to find a solution that was not only good for the university, but would serve as a resource the whole community could enjoy,” said WSU President Scott Olson. “What’s clear from the conversations is that while the idea does have many supporters, support for it is not embraced widely enough for us to feel this is a win-win scenario for our town.”
During the past eight months, the university consulted extensively with the public about the proposal and solicited widespread community input. Olson said WSU is grateful to its supporters and appreciates the time and attention dedicated by university employees, city staff and the Winona community.
Ultimately, Winona State strives to be a good neighbor, said Olson, citing partnerships with the Great River Shakespeare Festival, the Beethoven Festival, the Frozen River Film Festival, high school athletics, and many other community groups.
“We are not interested in succeeding in our goals if a significant number of community members aren’t on board,” said Olson. “It’s important to us that we have community support.”
The university will explore other options to provide student athletes in its baseball program—and all other programs—with a safe competition and practice facility.
“We will continue to pursue our goal of building a new baseball facility to remain competitive in the NSIC and Division II,” said Olson.
For more information, call WSU Communication Office at 507-457-5024.
