ROCKFORD (WREX) — Rockford’s Beyer Stadium will see $400,000 in state funding to help the International Women’s Baseball Center make the necessary improvements for attracting professional league play. 

IWBC has more than $1.1 million dedicated for Phase One construction priorities at Beyer that include: a scoreboard, lights, enhanced electric, field regrading, irrigation, press box, restrooms, and other fan and player amenities.

Since its inception, IWBC’s impact has extended through a myriad of programs including educational symposia, celebrating cultural icons like the Rockford Peaches, producing free block parties and Major League Baseball youth clinics, and cultivating global opportunities like hosting the inaugural season of the Women’s Pro Baseball League (WPBL).

As its capital campaign and Phase-One construction accelerate, IWBC is a frontrunner for welcoming the WPBL to play the 2026 season at historic Beyer Stadium, where women’s professional baseball would return for the first time since 1954.

“Given the rich history of the Rockford Peaches and women’s baseball in Rockford, attracting these inaugural games to Beyer Field is an opportunity not to be passed up. I want to help IWBC make the improvements necessary to accommodate women’s professional baseball sooner rather than later,” said state Senator Steve Stadelman.

“Having this world-class sports event occur on the Peaches home field will serve as an example of the economic catalyst that’s possible when the museum is fully developed.”

“I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Senator Stadelman for his incredible generosity and unwavering support of the International Women’s Baseball Center, at a time when the momentum for girls and women in sports is growing like never before, his commitment couldn’t be more critical,” said Dr. Kat Williams, IWBC CEO. 

In addition to the committed funds for Phase One work, IWBC has also invested $2.5 million in this south Rockford neighborhood through the razing and clean-up of old buildings, Beyer Stadium renovations, local and national programming, and the concept design development by world-renowned architect and area native Jeanne Gang of Studio Gang.

Targeted for completion in 2030, the three-phase IWBC project will cost approximately $31 million total.

$5 million for Phase One (renovations and additions to Beyer Stadium and north Beyer Field), $22.8 million for Phase Two (construction of comprehensive indoor community/sports center and museum hall), and $3 million for Phase Three (buildout of exhibits inside the museum hall).  

“The City of Rockford has been a proud supporter of the International Women’s Baseball Center for years,” said Tom McNamara, City of Rockford Mayor.

“The legacy of Beyer Stadium is not just about baseball — it’s about trailblazing and community pride. Women’s baseball is a vital chapter in Rockford’s story, and we’re committed to preserving and celebrating that legacy for generations to come.”

“Great things are happening at Beyer Park thanks to the IWBC,” said Jay Sandine, executive director of the Rockford Park District. 

“This investment will help enhance the historical venue, create a unique tourist experience, and provide endless opportunities for youth, teens and neighbors. The excitement and crowds we saw when we welcomed the USA Baseball Women’s National Team were just the start of the opportunities to showcase and push women’s baseball forward.”

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