Recently, the city renamed Countryside Ball Fields, near 108th Avenue and Simms Street, to be “Roemersberger Ball Fields,” in honor of community advocate and neighborhood champion Tom Roemersberger.

In 1975, the city built Countryside Park, adding a recreation center at the location the following year. Ball fields within the park were constructed in 1998 and were given the name Countryside after the housing development surrounding the area.

Roemersberger, who lived in the Countryside neighborhood, was instrumental in fundraising, engaging the community, and assisting in the design and development of the ball fields.

“Renaming city facilities to honor those in our community doesn’t happen often,” said Parks, Recreation and Libraries Director Jason Genck. “However, because of Tom’s hard work fundraising for the ball fields and unifying the Countryside neighborhood, the city and City Council wanted to honor him with this distinction.”

Roemersberger’s community engagement abilities resulted in not only a tremendous asset being built for the Countryside community, but also to the entire city at a time when ball fields were limited.

“His work has touched so many people and it’s a testament to how one person can affect the community by caring about where they live,” said Councillor Dave DeMott.

The popular ball fields are used by Standley Lake Little League softball practice and youth baseball. In addition, Westminster Football uses the fields for practice and games every fall.

Site signage installation and a rededication ceremony are scheduled for this spring.

The city’s Parks, Recreation and Libraries Department manages 2,910 acres of parks, including this one, as a part of its commitment to serving the wellness needs of the community.