Photo Credit: South Suburban Parks and Recreation
Many public batting-cage facilities across the country are nearing or have already surpassed the 20 year mark; even those with regular and proper maintenance are beginning to approach their effective lifespan. When user expectations, increased equipment noise levels, rising parts and labor costs, and decreasing energy efficiency are added to the mix, these facilities may be well past maximum-revenue production. These factors are compounded by a watered-down industry, led by an increase in privately owned, baseball/softball training facilities, the growing trend of youth-sport specialization, and an increasing variety of other non-athletic youth activities (e.g., video games, clubs, social events, etc.).
The operations of a public, outdoor batting-cage facility can be viewed as a microcosm of the larger challenges facing today’s park and recreation organizations. However, a facility of this type can also develop positive community rapport, providing high levels of customer service and ultimately producing reliable revenue streams.
Keep Your Eye On The Ball
The daily operations of a batting-cage facility are comprised of three functions: