The new downtown ballpark opened as the new home of the Greensboro Grasshoppers. Historic War Memorial Stadium will be available as a season-long venue for ameteur baseball involving colleges, high schools, American Legion play, tournaments sanctioned by national organizations and other events.

As exciting as the two-stadium package is for baseball in Greensboro, the real benefit will be realized in relation to what the stadium combination will do for the community's future economic vitality. Here's a quick look at the baseball and business implications associated with the combined resource of the new downtown ballpark and War Memorial Stadium.

OWNERSHIP

Owned and operated by an independent, non-profit group. Profits from operations will be used to fund community projects.

FUNDING

Construction and operations to be funded with private money.

IMPORTANCE TO FUTURE ECONOMIC PROGRESS

Planners and other development experts say the ballpark is important to overall downtown revitalization. It represents a key step towards fulfilling the vision of Greensboro's Center City as the future nucleus for entertainment, recreation and cultural enrichment. This boost to overall downtown revitalization will help fuel Greensboro's progress toward economic growth.

OWNERSHIP

Owned by the city of Greensboro and operated by the department of Parks and Recreation.

FUNDING

Will continue to be funded from operating revenues and city budget allocation by the Department of Parks and Recreation.

IMPORTANCE TO FUTURE ECONOMIC PROGRESS

War Memorial Stadium and the high level of amateur baseball competition it host will continue to complement the neighborhood atmosphere of the Aycock District and the northeast corner of downtown. The transition from professional to amateur baseball at War Memorial will also create the opportunity for new visitors to experience the unique early 20th century charm of the Aycock Neighborhood.