Hunt was recently awarded the contract for the Ed Smith Stadium renovation in Sarasota, Florida. Hunt will be working with locally based W.G. Mills and Hoyt Architects on the fast-track renovation. Construction is scheduled for completion by February 2011 to ensure the facility is ready for it’s first game on March 1, 2011.

Built in 1989 to replace Payne Park, the stadium currently holds 7,500 people. In 1998 the Cincinnati Reds made Ed Smith Stadium their home until 2009 when their lease expired with the city and stadium. Prior to the Reds, The Chicago White Sox occupied the facility from 1989 to 1997.

The Baltimore Orioles, who spent one year in the facility back in 1991, signed a 30-year lease to make Ed Smith Stadium their new home. They played their first spring training game on March 3rd against the Rays who they bested 12 to 2.

The renovation will update the stadium by adding more seating, providing more shared areas and updating the general aesthetics of the facility. Arches will be added to the two-story façade with a direct view of the field. A 35,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art clubhouse will also be added as part of the park’s facelift.

Orioles fans have a lot to look forward to as that March 2011 date approaches and Ed Smith Stadium takes on its refreshed look for its new tenant.