Well, it’s not quite a field of dreams. It’s more like a pitch of dreams.
Chesterfield County on Monday broke ground on phase one of the Beulah Park extension project, which will convert nine acres at the former Beulah Elementary School to a complex that includes a regulation-sized cricket pitch.
While cricket matches previously took place on the property, the new field will have improvements such as lighting and an irrigation system.
“We’ve been craving for it for the last few years,” said Gautam Ramesh, batsman for the Greater Richmond Cricket Club. “I think the quality of cricket will improve, players’ skill levels will improve, and more people will become interested to play once the facilities are better.”
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The $2.4 million project will also add two multipurpose rectangular fields, a scoreboard, a batting cage and amenities like a walking trail, restrooms and a picnic shelter. It is scheduled to open in fall 2024.
The revamped park will serve as a companion to the adjacent Beulah Recreation Center, which opened in June.
“This represents really embracing the community,” said Neil Luther, director of Chesterfield Parks and Recreation. “It represents cultural diversity, and for this park in this community to become sort of a hub for that is a really great opportunity.”
While cricket is far from the most well-known sport in the U.S., Richmond’s history with the game dates to the 1700s.
William Byrd II, the founder of Richmond, wrote about playing cricket in “The Secret Diary of William Byrd of Westover 1709-1712.” In 1795, a cricket club in Richmond documented its playing rules.
Cricket faded in Richmond in the early 20th century, but has seen a rebirth the past 50 years as the state’s population has become more diverse. Immigrants from commonwealth countries like India, Australia and South Africa brought their beloved sport back into the fold, resulting in increased participation.
The Richmond region now has around 15 cricket teams and hosts two tournaments a year. Besides Chesterfield, Henrico County has a hardball cricket field at Wilder Middle School.
“Henrico and Chesterfield have been great in facilitating cricket playing venues,” said Zulfi Khan, president of the Central Virginia Cricket Association. “By facilitating these venues for diverse groups to be able to play the game they love so much, it creates a sense of belonging.”
Dickerson Construction is serving as the contractor for the Beulah Park development, with Austin Brockenbrough & Associates doing design engineering.
Following completion of the first phase of Beulah Park, the second phase will see a playground, splash pad and outdoor courts installed on the grounds.
“We’re always excited to see new things happens in Chesterfield,” said Brenda White Vaughn, chair of the Chesterfield Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission. “That’s what keeps us growing and what keeps us good. It’s just another avenue for people to get out and have fun.”
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