Lycoming News

State Senator Gene Yaw and State Representative Jamie Flick, both Republicans, along with Williamsport City Mayor Derek Slaughter, have expressed their approval of a $750,000 grant awarded to the city. The funds come from the Department of Community and Economic Development's Sports Marketing and Tourism Program. This funding is aimed at supporting the 2025 Little League Baseball World Series and Major League Baseball’s ‘Little League Classic’ game at Bowman Field in Williamsport by making necessary infrastructure improvements.

“There’s no better place to enjoy America’s favorite pastime than in the home of Little League Baseball,” said Yaw. He highlighted the tradition of baseball in Williamsport as a driver for community cohesion, economic growth, and tourism opportunities in Lycoming County. According to Yaw, "Bowman Field is a historic destination in and of itself."

Flick echoed these sentiments, stating his gratitude towards the Shapiro administration for acknowledging the significance of hosting MLB’s Little League Classic at Bowman Field. “This investment is a win-win as it will upgrade the safety and experience of all players on the field,” he said.

The MLB Little League Classic was first introduced at Bowman Field in August 2017. The event coincides with the Little League Baseball World Series each year in August, supporting over 2,000 jobs and generating more than $2.2 million.

Mayor Slaughter expressed gratitude on behalf of Williamsport to Governor Josh Shapiro, DCED Secretary Rick Siger, Senator Yaw, and Representative Flick for their continued support. “Together, we are building a brighter future for Williamsport,” he remarked.

The planned upgrades at Bowman Field include replacing the outfield wall and backstop netting, installing new field lighting, purchasing maintenance equipment, and enhancing audio systems. Alongside this grant from DCED, an additional $400,000 has been secured by Yaw and Flick for ballpark upgrades this year.

The Sports Marketing and Tourism Program aims to attract significant sporting events to Pennsylvania to boost local economies through increased tourism.

For further information or state-related news updates can be found on Senator Yaw's website or Representative Flick's website.