Burkey Construction is pleased to announce the completion of the $32 million Redner’s Event Center at FirstEnergy Stadium. This project, the largest expansion in the stadium’s history, is in response to an MLB directive for upgraded player facilities in all MiLB ballparks, including an expanded clubhouse with new workout and food prep spaces, and batting tunnels.
Due to the ballpark’s existing layout, an expansion of the existing player facilities was not an option. Knowing that a new facility would be needed to meet MLB requirements, the R-Phils team decided to create a space that would not only benefit their players, but the community of Greater Berks.
The highlight of the new space is the Redner’s Event Center, which will be available for use year-round. This 6,500 square-foot space provides an unparalleled view of the ballpark and can accommodate up to 550 people. With part of the structure being directly in the batter’s eye, all construction and design elements needed to comply with MLB requirements for that space, including specific brick colors.
The building’s exterior pays homage to several retired R-Phils players with murals: Ryne Sandberg, Robin Roberts, Jim Bunning, and Mike Schmidt. All four are Baseball Hall of Fame players.
When in the initial design concept phase, this project encompassed the new home clubhouse and event center. Initially slated for a 15-month construction schedule, owner-initiated changes increased this to 24 months, with the addition of a visitor’s clubhouse, batting cages, and additional player support space and event space. The bullpen and batting tunnels were also relocated to a position near the new scoreboard.
To ensure the building would be accessible to R-Phils players during the season, the schedule included several phased turnover dates that aligned with the season schedule.
With the additions to project scope, the design team ensured that each new aspect could double as rentable event space for the community to enjoy. Everything from the batting tunnels to the locker rooms is available to rent.
Burkey partnered with EwingCole and Pennoni for this project.
