Rocky Mountain House council has approved funding for a new miniature ball diamond designed to accommodate U9 baseball players.

The town is partnering with the Rocky Minor Ball Association on the project, which would be located alongside four existing full-size diamonds on the east end of town.

Coun. Trevor Kalyn, who is also president of the Rocky Minor Ball Association, says about 120 U9 players currently use the full-size, 230-foot fields.

“With this field, it would give an opportunity for kids to play on a size-appropriate field,” he says, noting the miniature diamond would be small enough to allow young players to hit balls out of the park.

Kalyn adds that scheduling more than 256 players can be challenging, and the additional diamond would free up larger fields for older age groups.

Documents reviewed by council indicate the mini diamond could create opportunities for up to 60 additional children to participate in baseball programs.

The project is expected to cost about $17,500, with the Rocky Minor Ball Association contributing $5,000.

Town engineering technologist Sean LaFrance says fencing represents the largest expense, estimated at $8,263. He adds taller fencing will be installed behind the diamond to prevent foul balls from adjacent fields from entering the play area.

The dugouts would be built by volunteers, with materials supplied by the town at an estimated cost of nearly $1,700.

Coun. Ken Moesker supported the proposal, saying it is both cost-effective and a strong example of a partnership between the town and a local organization.

At its June 16 meeting, council approved $13,000 from its infrastructure reserve to support the project.

Construction is expected to take place this year, with the diamond ready for the 2027 baseball season.