Once a community jewel, Bruce Field had fallen into disrepair and become a hang-out for troublemakers.
So Salt Lake County officials Mayor Ben McAdams and Sheriff Jim Winder presided Wednesday over a ceremonial revitalization of the long-neglected baseball diamond at 4290 W. 4865 South.
Along with members of the county's Honorary Colonels organization and Township Services Director Patrick Leary, the mayor and sheriff oversaw heavy equipment lay waste to the field's dilapidated backstop and above-ground dugouts.
A year from now, McAdams said, "the community will have a new multipurpose field and a playground that is safe, modern and inviting to families and children." It is supposed to be open by the summer of 2015.
Added Winder, "Through an innovative approach to mitigate criminal activity and provide youth productive and healthy opportunities, we can create a family-friendly environment where kids learn skills and enjoy fun activities."
The Kearns National Pony League donated the land in exchange for the county's project management.