For the City Times

WISCONSIN RAPIDS – The Wisconsin Rapids Rafters have reached an agreement with the city of Wisconsin Rapids to extend their Witter Field lease through the 2030 season. The Rafters were entering the last season of its previous lease agreement. The lease extension was the final step in the ownership transfer of the organization from Big Top Sports and Entertainment to new owners Joe and Vince Fonti, current owners of the Furniture & ApplianceMart/Ashley Homestore brands.

The new lease brings a wave of improvements to Witter Field before the start of the 2020 season. Staff members say the fan experience is the first area of concentration. The Point Craft River will increase in size to accompany an additional 50 fans. The size increase will create a secondary option for groups of 20 plus looking for an intimate area within the park. A new bar, tables, and more standing room are included.

The Accounting Plus Home Plate Club will increase its size as well. Opened in 2013, the Accounting Plus Home Plate Club has become one of the most sought-after areas to sit when taking in a Rafters game. Due to growth of interest, the area will add four tables – 16 seats. The additional seats will see the same amenities.

Padding will be added to the face of the Club to increase the standard of player safety for all who play at Witter Field.

A few face lifts to Witter are expected start in the springtime. The men’s and women’s bathroom are to be renovated and the outfield wall will see changes. The wood currently on the face of the wall will be removed and replaced with a padded wall system.

“The wall project was fueled by an effort to continue to improve our standard for player safety at Witter Field.” said General Manager Andy Francis.

Fans can also expect to be spending more time at Witter Field in the future for non-Rafters games. Included in the lease is the ability and expectation that Witter Field will be used for more special events. The increase in events will be seen as early as the 2020 calendar year.