Workers are busy at the Laurel Sportsplex preparing for the 2009 Dixie Youth World Series.

Along with construction of a new state-of-the-art pressbox/concession stand, workers at the Laurel Sportsplex located off Highway 84 are preparing for next year’s event.

“Things are going real good,” said Laurel’s Parks and Recreation Director Elvin Ulmer. “We’ve had good weather and we are making good progress on the work.”

Ulmer said the pressbox/concession stand is the one remaining requirement the facility must have in order to host the event.

However, along with the construction of the pressbox, work is being done to the pavilions at the facility.

Ulmer said the pavilions will be a plus to the local facility.

The Laurel City Council recently approved the $30,000 pavilion project, which is being handled by Daniels Construction.

Ulmer said the batting cages on both sides of the fields were moved back to provide space for the two pavilions to be built.

He said both pavilions will be constructed similarly — one on the North side of the Sportsplex and the other on the South side. He said both will be 50-feet long and 28-feet wide.

“It takes about three weeks to construct one,” the recreation director explained. “So, in about a month, we should have both pavilions built.”

Ulmer said once the structures are complete, they will benefit local parents as well as assist the city in hosting events like the World Series.

“With the pavilions, parents can actually get a break from the sun or rain,” he said. “During the World Series we will have vendors under the pavilions. However, during local games, it will be available to shield parents and spectators from the weather.”

Officials said the ongoing construction work is just some upgrades being conducted at the park in preparation of the World Series.

Ulmer said several people from the city — including city officials and community leaders — took part in this year’s World Series activities to prepare for next year’s event.

“It’s going to be one of the most exciting sports events to be held in the city,” Laurel Mayor Melvin Mack said. “It’s going to be an exciting event.”