The mayor of Evansville says a sports and entertainment stadium that’s been in use since 1956 needs to go. Lloyd Winnecke believes plans to re-build or reconfigure Roberts Stadium simply aren’t feasible. Instead, the mayor wants Roberts Stadium to become Roberts Park, with picnic areas, bike trails, and a dog park.
Winnicke told a meeting of the city Board of Parks Commissioners his plans Wednesday. WFIE TV reports that group will now debate and eventually vote on the mayor’s suggestion.
The 56-year-old Roberts Stadium was shut down last fall ahead of the opening of the new downtown Ford Center arena.
Mayor Winnicke estimates it will cost the city of Evansville between $6 million and $8 million to repurpose Roberts Stadium as a green space.
The mayor is also suggesting that bricks taken from the stadium be donated to the University of Evansville.