Under the glow of brand-new LED field lights, Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr., the Colton Joint Unified School District (CJUSD), students, coaches, and community members gathered to celebrate the ribbon cutting of the newly renovated softball and baseball fields at Bloomington High School — a transformative $5.5 million investment in youth athletics. The project was made possible through a partnership between San Bernardino County and CJUSD, funded by $1.8 million in ARPA funds directed by Supervisor Baca’s office and $3.7 million from the District’s General Obligation Bond. In an earlier phase, Supervisor Baca also secured $500,000 in discretionary funding for varsity baseball foul ball netting to improve safety for athletes and spectators. Reflecting on the project, Supervisor Baca said, “This project highlights what we can achieve when we work together to bring meaningful improvements to our students. These projects don’t happen overnight, but when they do, they create opportunities that will benefit generations of young athletes.”
The upgrades include new LED field lighting for JV baseball and JV softball, a complete varsity softball field reconstruction with new dugouts, backstop, bullpen, batting cages, bleachers, and an enhanced PA system, as well as significant varsity baseball improvements such as a synthetic turf infield, new lighting, modern outfield fencing, new bleachers, and a new sound system. These enhancements give student-athletes safer, modern, and more competitive facilities that elevate the entire Bruins athletic program. Student-athletes shared their excitement as they stepped onto the fields for the first time, with Izzy, a varsity baseball player, saying, “This field is going to inspire our team to practice harder, and we’re really thankful to Supervisor Baca for listening to us and bringing this field to Bloomington.”
CJUSD Assistant Superintendent Brandon Dade highlighted how this project aligns with the district’s mission. “Our goal is to develop the whole student — academically, socially, and physically,” Dade said. “Facilities like these play a critical role in that mission. When students have safe, high-quality spaces to learn teamwork, discipline, and confidence, it strengthens every part of their educational experience. We’re grateful for the partnership that made this possible.”
Coaches echoed the enthusiasm and appreciation for the investment. “We are so grateful to Supervisor Baca for making this possible,” said Rudy Sanchez, softball coach. “These new facilities give our players a field they can be proud of, and we can’t wait to see how this elevates our team.”
About Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr.:
Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr. is a dedicated public servant with a deep-rooted commitment to enhancing infrastructure and fostering a resilient community in the Fifth District of San Bernardino County. With a track record of spearheading projects that uplift neighborhoods, he consistently seeks innovative solutions to advance local development.
For media inquiries, contact Josie De Vera at Josie.DeVera@bos.sbcounty.gov or via phone at (909) 387-5010.