The Athletics Department is upgrading SMCC’s baseball and softball fields by installing permanent outfield fences with warning tracks.
The fields have used portable fences during games since 2008, said Athletics Director Matt Richards. Before that, they didn’t use outfield fences at all.
The upgrade work began May 14 when crews removed sod where the fences and warning tracks will be located. The 4½-foot chain-link fences will be installed the week of May 21.
The project is being paid for by the SeaWolves Athletics Club, a nonprofit organization that raises money through donations and fundraisers.
The baseball and softball teams used to share their fields with the SMCC soccer teams. Temporary outfield fencing was put up before every game.
Permanent fences can be installed because the soccer teams now play their home games at South Portland’s Wainwright Recreational Complex.
The baseball field fence will be 330 feet down the left-field line, 315 feet down the right-field line and 390 feet in center field. The softball field fence will be 190 feet down the left- and right-field lines and 200 feet in center field.
The field work is being done by Sports Fields Inc. of Monmouth. Burns’ Fencing of Westbrook is installing the fencing.