Project planning by Augustana University and DGR Engineering to upgrade Bowden Field to a championship level began in 2018, and eventually culminated in a new facility which opened for the 2023 season.

The biggest challenge: fitting a new modern facility within the existing field’s footprint (circa 1991). To achieve this, home plate was shifted approximately 12 feet south to maintain existing fencing dimensions and provide room for chair back seating and a fan suite/press box behind home plate. Also, an extended planning process was necessary to balance donation momentum with the university’s facility expectations for a championship-level facility.

The final project plan balanced design goals with the funding while utilizing bid alternates for several features to allow the University flexibility in decision-making in the following areas:

• Lighting
• Outfield padding
• Dugout Cabinets
• Press box lift
• Home team dugout kitchenette
• Chairback seating – Potential future addition space

The final result is a state-of-the-art facility that all parties can be proud of and that will serve the needs of Augustana University’s softball team and its fans for many years.