Fallbrook’s Historic Baseball Field May Be Replaced by Affordable Housing
By: Velorine
111-Year-Old Ballpark Faces Uncertain Future as County Considers Redevelopment
Fallbrook, CA, A beloved baseball field dating back to 1914, home to the Bonsall Fallbrook Little Leagues at risk of being redeveloped into affordable housing, sparking an urgent debate in the community.
The county of San Diego, which now owns the land, is weighing plans to replace the historic field as part of an effort to increase housing availability. The property was previously owned by the North County Fire Protection District, which sold it due to financial necessity for constructing a new fire station.
Community Outrage Over Potential Loss
With over a century of baseball history at stake, local leaders fear young athletes will lose a vital space for sports and recreation.
Bonsall Fallbrook Little League President Daniela Ramirez expressed deep concern: “It breaks my heart. Where will the kids go?”
League Vice President Richard Martinez also emphasized the loss of sports infrastructure, questioning whether replacing the field would truly solve the housing crisis: “Without sports, what future are we building?”
County Promises Community Input
San Diego County Supervisor Jim Desmond’s office has stated the decision-making process will take years, giving locals a chance to weigh in on the site’s future. Officials also vowed to help find a new home for the Little League while exploring additional amenities like a teen center or Boys & Girls Club to complement the proposed housing development.
However, the Little League’s lease could be voided within just 60 days, leaving uncertainty over whether an alternative field can be secured in time.
What’s Next?
The San Diego County Board of Supervisors is expected to debate the project in the coming weeks, with a decision that could forever change the fabric of Fallbrook’s community sports scene.
Will history be preserved, or will progress take precedence? Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
