TRWD’s Board of Directors voted today to demolish the deteriorated LaGrave Field in downtown Fort Worth.
In 2019, TRWD assumed control of the property, which had been dormant and in extreme disrepair for the last several years. The District originally engaged a third-party entity to refurbish the stadium. However, in 2020 TRWD terminated that agreement because the company was unable to comply with the contract’s terms.
Since then, the District has spent approximately $200,000 a year to secure and maintain the site in order to deter further vandalism and mitigate potential risks to the public. Instead of continuing investments in security, repairs, and maintenance, the Board determined today that LaGrave Field constitutes a public safety hazard that exceeds reasonable repair efforts and cannot be restored in a cost-effective manner.
“The decision made today is centered on prioritizing public health and safety,” said Leah King, TRWD’s Board President. “The deteriorating condition of LaGrave Field presents significant safety hazards and incurs ongoing maintenance costs funded by public resources. While this marks the end of an era for the current stadium, it leaves open the possibility for future developments, be it baseball or other sports and community projects, that will benefit our city and its residents.”
In a comprehensive report submitted by HR&A Advisors in 2024, it was highlighted that “LaGrave Field has been vacant since 2014, and while some stakeholders desire a return of baseball, there is skepticism about the ability to attract a financially sustainable professional sports use for year-round activation.”
Some site elements of LaGrave Field are expected be to preserved to honor the rich history of baseball in Fort Worth.
TRWD will continue to welcome public feedback and comments regarding LaGrave Field via the contact us form on trwd.com.
