Field(s) of Dreams? Controversial Expansion Plans Set in Iowa

Ask just about anyone with a pulse and they'll have an opinion on Iowa's Field of Dreams. The debate over the large-scale commercialization of the iconic movie site has raged for years, and now it has become a reality.

After a largely successful Major League Baseball exhibition was held at the site in August of 2021, more games will be coming, along with some newly announced major upgrades to the site.

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KWWL published an article on Thursday that detailed the expansion plans, which are extensive, to say the least.

The article notes:

The new controlling owners of the Field of Dreams Movie Site are announcing a major $80 million project that will expand the area into a destination for youth baseball and softball, as well as fans and tourists.

The plan will include the building of nine new baseball and softball fields, dormitories for teams, and a hotel, all set to be completed by the end of 2023.

Think that's excessive and may ruin the simplicity and uniqueness of the site? There's more:

The development will then phase in the addition of a 100,000-square-foot fieldhouse, a concert amphitheater, an RV park, a disability-inclusive park, and trails through the corn fields. They plan to phase in these developments through 2025.

One can only hope that the site will retain some of its character throughout the transformation. The article does note that despite a more than 50% growth in overall size, the original movie site will remain:

The project will be adding almost 100 acres to the original 190-acre site. However, executives say the iconic original aspects of the site will remain in tact and preserved. 

Most fans of the game of baseball and/or the movie Field of Dreams will most definitely have a strong opinion one way or another on the new plans. Sure, it provides a ton of opportunities for youth baseball and softball growth and development, but at what cost?

What was once a charming, small-town tourist stop has now gone fully commercial. Let's hope the character and distinctiveness of the iconic site remain despite the growth.

Sources: KWWL and mlb.com