Hsinchu Municipal Baseball Stadium Renovation Undergoes Final Inspection

After more than four years of closure, the renovation of the Hsinchu Municipal Baseball Stadium is entering its final inspection phase, commencing on August 20.

The Hsinchu City government has allocated an additional 133 million New Taiwan dollars to upgrade the stadium, focusing on repaving the artificial turf and enhancing the drainage system. These improvements aim to address challenges encountered during the renovation, such as discovering significant waste and RC structures underground, as well as stricter central government regulations on soil excavation.

The city government is adopting a dual approach of accountability and settlement regarding the original contractor's performance. While the outstanding contract portions have undergone final inspections and are proceeding to settlement, the city has also filed criminal complaints and initiated a civil lawsuit seeking over 400 million NT dollars in damages. This legal action targets the contractor for alleged failure to follow blueprints and other contractual breaches.

To ensure the field meets international standards, the city will engage Labosport, an international professional certification body, to conduct tests on impact absorption, vertical deformation, energy return, and ball roll. The improved drainage system, featuring upgraded permeable layers and anti-overflow devices, has already been tested and proven effective during heavy rainfall.

Upon completion, the stadium is intended for use by the city's baseball team and for training and competitions for youth baseball programs. The city government emphasizes that the inspection process is meticulously following all relevant regulations.