New ownership plan in the works for Borleske Stadium, Martin Field

WALLA WALLA – The Walla Walla City Council approved a plan at the meeting held on June 12 to partner with Whitman College to buy out Walla Walla Public Schools’ ownership interest in Borleske Stadium and Martin Field

With the passing of the February 13, 2024, $14.9 million, six-year capital facilities levy, Walla Walla Public Schools will have the ability to construct a multi-use stadium on the campus of Walla Walla High School leading the district to no longer needing to use the Borleske Stadium complex.

In 1925, a partnership was formed between the city of Walla Walla, Walla Walla Public Schools, and Whitman College. That partnership later became known as the Borleske Stadium Association. Over the years, the stadium has hosted various community events, concerts, and sporting events. Today, the stadium hosts the Walla Walla Sweets, Whitman Baseball, and Walla Walla Public Schools’ football games.

With this change, the city of Walla Walla will own Martin Field and Whitman College will own Borleske Stadium. Appraisals have been conducted for the properties. The net impact to the city for the dissolution from the Borleske Stadium Association is $262,871.

Walla Walla Parks and Recreation Director Andy Coleman said the city will continue to maintain Martin Field for drop-in use, youth soccer, youth football, lacrosse and ultimate Frisbee.

Coleman added the city is also pursuing a grant to switch out the natural grass on the field to artificial turf.

Walla Walla City Attorney Tim Donaldson said both the city and Whitman College have applied to dissolve from the Borleske Stadium Association.

Map via city of Walla Walla shows proposed new ownership changes for Borleske Stadium/Martin Field

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Elkhorn Media Group

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