WILMINGTON, NC (WECT) - A Wilmington resident is trying to gain support for a baseball stadium by taking to the Internet.
Chris Fernandez started the website PortCitybaseball.com just a few days ago -- and so far, it's had hundreds of hits.
Fernandez is an avid sports fan.
He's been following a local developer's efforts to get a baseball stadium built on the riverfront in downtown Wilmington, and even though he's in no way affiliated with the developer, he wants folks to jump on the baseball bandwagon.
Fernandez designed the website as a way to spread the word about the plans, and it includes a spot for folks to sign a petition to support the project.
So far, more than a hundred people have signed the online petition in just a few days, and he has high hopes for the site in the future.
"I hope [people] see the information that is out there, and [that they can] be informed about the stadium and what it brings, such as jobs and revenue to the area," said Fernandez.
Just a few weeks ago, the county pulled out of talks with the city on helping to fund the baseball project.
Yet, Fernandez hopes the two sides will put aside their differences and get back to the table.
It appears that leaders could be doing just that.
Tonight, County Commissioner Jonathan Barfield said, "I don't think any doors are closed. We've talked about many scenarios where the county can still be involved. I've said all along baseball on the river could be such a great economic boost for the city and to me its all about economic development. I think the city is close to making something happen and I think that's great."
Just a few weeks ago, Barfield indicated the county was "done with baseball" due to a dispute over an apartment complex.
In the meantime, the developer is moving forward with plans for a marina, hotel and restaurants on the site, which is located right next to PPD.
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Fernandez's website, portcitybaseball.com
Fernandez's website, portcitybaseball.com
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