Salem Seeks Volunteers for Bertram Field Committee

From: Robert K McCarthy

Councillor Ward One

Salem Seeks Volunteers for Bertram Field Committee

Working group will help guide future improvements at City’s busiest athletic facility

Salem Mayor Kim Driscoll today announced that the City is seeking resident volunteers to apply to join a new working group she is convening to provide advice on future improvements at Bertram Field.

Bertram Field underwent a $2 million upgrade in 2013 and 2014, complete with a new turf field and striping, installation of a regulation length track, and more. The work was advanced through the advocacy of numerous community groups, including the Wicked Running Club, Salem youth sports groups, Salem High School sports and music boosters, and more. Current work underway at the busy field will upgrade the stadium lighting.

“This committee will help provide input on additional possible enhancements to Bertram,” said Mayor Driscoll. “These include making recommendations on key components of a plan that could include the team room, concession facilities, restrooms, and more. The group will also help advocate and privately fundraise to support the project. They will additionally be asked to work on developing management and maintenance plans for the facility’s on-going operation. Those could include rules, regulations, fees, and a new management structure.”

The Bertram Field Committee will include the Salem Public Schools superintendent or his designee, the Mayor or her designee, the superintendent of Parks and Recreation, the director of the Department of Public Services, the Salem High School athletic director, a member of the School Committee, a member of the City Council, and two residents of Salem, one appointed by the School Committee and one appointed by the Park and Recreation Commission.

Residents interested in applying for the appointment from the Salem School Committee should submit a letter or email of interest, with a resume, to eileensacco@salemk12.org. Those interested in applying for appointment by the Park and Recreation Commission should submit the same materials to kpartanen@salem.com. All applications must be submitted no later than noon on Wednesday, January 14.