Grettenberger grandstand to be renovated

By Lisa Paine
Posted Thursday, June 26, 2008

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By Lisa Paine
VIEW Sports Editor
IMLAY CITY — The 73-year-old Grettenberger grandstand at the former varsity baseball field was deemed unsafe this past spring and because the schools have exhausted all options to pay for renovations, the Imlay City Alumni Association has picked up the fundraising project.

Because of the age of the historical grandstand and tough economic times, the school district has exercised all its options to renovate the stadium, and costs to renovate are estimated at $15,000 or better, say the alumni association.

The grandstand at R.A. Grettenberger Field was constructed in 1935 as part of the Works Progress Administration program, created by President Franklin Roosevelt as part of the New Deal. The grandstand was dedicated in 1947 and named after Grettenberger, the district’s long-standing superintendent.

Donations are currently rolling in and range from $5 to $40. A grant from the Four County Community Foundation of $2,400 and another $5,000 grant from Lowe’s are helping the association get closer to its goal.

“Last I checked, we are close to $8,000,” said Marilyn Swihart, alumni secretary/newsletter editor. “Final bids are due sometime in July, and we’ll know what the overall cost is. We’ve just been overwhelmed with the number of donations, lots of small amounts form lots of people.”

Swihart noted that the grandstand is a unique design and is a piece of history in Imlay City. The Grettenberger family has offered to match all June and July donations to help preserve the grandstands. The basic structure is solid as a rock, but it needs upgrading because of deterioration with the bleacher seats. A new roof is also sorely needed and some side sheeting needs replacement.
“It’s a historical landmark and so many have fond memories of it. We’re hoping to have it recognized to have it placed on the State of Michigan Historical Registry. Mr. Grettenberger was an important part in the growth of our school district. He went on to become superintendent of Lapeer County schools,” Swihart said.

Swihart said that when the association first started talking about the renovations, the school had two very informal bids that covered a broad range. In a few weeks bids are due in from the companies seeking to renovate the grandstands. A mandatory pre-bid meeting drew three local companies.
“We’re hoping to raise enough funds to spruce up the signage. The Little League fills those fields each year, and we need to keep those upgraded as well now that the new athletic complex is nearing completion,” Swihart added. “We are planning a rededication ceremony once completed, and we’ll recognize donors at that time.”

Once word got out about the renovation, Swihart said the donations and letters started rolling in. In one letter, Lorne Worthy, a 1943 graduate, wrote, “I had the honor of driving Gret and his wife to the athletic field for the dedication. I had a brand new 1947 Dodge yellow convertible (why I was selected) and we paraded through town, to the applause of all the onlookers.”

“We always talk about our legacy, and this can be part of the current graduates’ legacy. They can leave this for future generations to enjoy just as they did,” said Swihart.

The alumni association has committed to help with the financing of the renovation and is seeking donations of all sizes, from $1 to $10 and up; whatever anyone can afford.”

Donations can be sent to Alumni Treasurer, 320 W. First Street, Imlay City 48444 and marked as “Grandstand.”