Prince Edward Island officials opened the Don McDougall Park baseball field in Mill River on Aug. 23, 2024 [1].
The project provides the region with a modern facility designed to support youth development and professional standards for local teams. It honors the decades of work Don McDougall contributed to the growth of baseball across the island.
The construction of the park cost $2.1 million [1]. The new facility includes a ballfield with a seating capacity for 500 spectators [1].
Don McDougall attended the ceremony to mark the official opening of the site. He said, "It’s a very special day for the baseball community here — we finally have a field that meets the standards of the sport and honors a true legend."
Local leaders highlighted the long-term impact the facility will have on the Mill River community. Mayor John MacDonald said the new park will be a hub for youth development and community events for years to come.
Sarah MacNeil, a local baseball coach, noted the emotional significance of the project for the community. She said seeing the field ready for play is a dream come true for everyone who grew up watching McDougall on the diamond.
The facility represents a significant investment in the island's sports infrastructure. By providing a standardized field, the region can now host higher-level competitions and training sessions that were previously unavailable in the immediate area.
“"It’s a very special day for the baseball community here."”
The establishment of Don McDougall Park signals a shift toward modernized sports infrastructure in rural Prince Edward Island. By investing millions into a facility that meets professional standards, the province is creating a sustainable environment for youth athletics and community gathering, while institutionalizing the legacy of local sports figures.
