In 2016, a committee was formed by the Select Board to study and make recommendations to improve the community recreation space behind the North Andover Middle School, which includes Hayes Stadium.  After  years of community meetings gathering public input, the Committee brought forth a proposal to provide an updated recreational space for the  entire community.

The cost estimate is $8.75M.  In 2019,  Town Meeting commited to funding $7.5M from the Community Preservation fund  and Town general funds.   The remainder of the funds will come from private donations by community partners, such as youth leagues and other supporters. 

The improvements to the field will benefit generations to come.  The project includes recreational space for all sorts of inter-generational activities;  adult and youth leagues,  families, individuals, and seniors.  Baseball and softball fields, pickle ball courts, playgrounds, accessible walking paths and picnic tables,  and multi-use fields  that can be used for soccer, lacrosse, football and other similar athletic activities are all planned for the site.  There will be sports lighting for the athletic activities, and lights along the walking and jogging paths so that the recreational area can be used throughout the seasons, even during the short days of the fall and winter.   The project also includes expanded parking with lighting and landscape screening to ensure access for the entire community.

Unfortunately, due to lawsuits filed by abutters the project has been delayed significantly.  If funding is approved at the Annual Town Meeting in May 2024, the Town will go out to bid for construction to commence late summer/fall 2024.