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When the Frederick Keys open their home season on April 17 at Harry Grove Stadium, fans could be looking at a new and modern scoreboard and listening to a new sound system. At some point during the year, they might be looking at a new videoboard in left field at the stadium, which was built in 1990. City of Frederick facilities administrator Tim Beall said that bids have been put out by the City of Frederick for the scoreboard, sound system and videoboard. If approved by the city, which owns the stadium, Beall said the scoreboard and sound system could be ready for the home opener. That is welcome news to the Frederick Keys fans, who for the past 10 years looked at an out-of-date scoreboard that did not always work or had light bulbs that were not lit. The new scoreboard will be digital and include a clock and a speed of pitch display. "The fans will be blown away," said Dave Ziedelis, general manager of the Carolina League Class A team, which last year drew 295,656 fans, second most in the Carolina League He said the scoreboard will be about the same size as the current one and will be located in right field. The message center at the bottom will have higher resolution. Several other changes are also planned for the stadium this year. The restrooms and press box will be renovated and the visiting clubhouse expanded. A new umpires room is being built and handicap seating will be added. Ziedelis said the stadium will be in full compliance with the American Disability Act. The improvements are all part of the $7-9 million renovation of the facility. Most of the money was allocated in 2005. The city put $3.1 million toward the project and another $2 million in state money was received in 2005 and 2006. Two years ago, a new field was put in and new seats were added. The seats were put in by the Keys owners. Last year, the suite level was improved and new lights were installed. Ziedelis hopes for more improvements in the future, including expanded picnic areas and ticket office, a walk-in store, offices for his team, a groundskeeper building and a new front entrance. "We are trying to do what is necessary to move forward," he said.
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