Spectators viewing the Edison Wildcats at play on the team’s home ballfield will notice a new addition, thanks to contributions from community members.

Coach Mike Collopy said six area businesses donated a total of $6,000 to install a new scoreboard at the site near Jefferson State Park and replace another structure that was nearly two decades old. Work got underway this summer and the scoreboard has been placed, but now the donor’s names will be added on sponsorship panels to recognize their efforts.

“They are supporters of our program and asked me if we were interested in getting a new scoreboard. They pledged to donate money and we got the scoreboard in August,” Collopy said. “They helped with the purchase along with Salem Township Park and Recreation.”

Among the contributors were Scarpone Law Associates in Steubenville, Marcino Enterprises of Steubenville, BHI LLC of Richmond, McBane Insurance of Wintersville, Carrollton and Bergholz and Memories of Marie Assisted Living and Rock Day School, both of Toronto.

He continued that the 30-foot-by-20-foot scoreboard is outfitted with energy-saving LED lighting and replaces another structure which dates back to around 2000. Volunteers Matt Bordash, Josh McConnell and Cryogenic Construction installed the board while Ball Corporation of Weirton is also providing nearly $5,000 to help build a press box at the facility. Collopy said volunteer Bob Stagani and Gryler Home Repair of Richmond would begin the project in late autumn.

“We’ve been very fortunate to receive funding for this and we want to improve upon the ballfield,” he continued. “We would like to thank all of the local individuals and businesses who have donated to both projects. It’s greatly appreciated. We have been able to do a lot to the field and it would not be possible without that support.”

In addition to the structures, Collopy said grants from Salem Twp. Park and Recreation Department and the Charles M. and Thelma M. Pugliese Charitable Foundation also helped add safety features at the field, including fence capping and warning track.