HARTFORD – City leaders had a vision for Dunkin’ Donuts Park that included an opening day for the Yard Goats back in May and baseball throughout the summer. However, a new report on the status of the stadium shows just how far that vision was -- and is -- from reality.
Construction came to halt in June after Hartford split with the developers Centerplan Construction & DoNo Hartford LLC.
In a construction status report dated September 5, 2016, architects from Pendulum detailed the work that was still incomplete when work stopped, as well as issues with work that was already done. The 344-page document includes photos of numerous problems.
Those problems range from exposed piping and plumbing to concrete that was laid incorrectly and is already cracking or damaged. The report says that concrete will only get worse after freezing and thawing.
Photos show several clogged drains with pooling water throughout the stadium, water leaks, and mold growth.
Architects also noticed doors were installed that were too small for the openings, and there are a number of spots in the park where daylight can be seen coming through, including a locker room. They note that means rain and snow will be able to come through those openings as well.
The report doesn’t estimate how much money the remaining work and fixing these problems will cost.
Former reports obtained by FOX 61 listed nearly 200 tasks that still had to be completed.
Earlier this summer, the stadium authority announced Arch Insurance would take over and guarantee completion of the ballpark in time for the 2017 season. The plan is for them to cover the cost as well.
The Yard Goats have threatened to leave Hartford if the stadium is not completed by December 31.
