AUTAUGA COUNTY, AL — More than 150 community members, including families, joined the Autauga County Commission on Monday, March 30, 2026, to celebrate the grand opening of Liberty Fields at Pine Level Park. The event marked the opening of a long-awaited place for youth athletics and recognized Autauga County’s Liberty Tree in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.

Held in partnership with the Prattville Area Chamber of Commerce, the ribbon cutting brought together ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell, state and local elected officials, and community partners. The new fields are located at 160 County Road 104 in one of Autauga County’s fastest-growing areas.

The Commission passed and signed Resolution 2026-16 on March 17, naming the baseball complex Liberty Fields at Pine Level Park in honor of the nation’s 250th anniversary. The resolution recognizes the Liberty Tree planted at the park and honors the generations who have served to protect the freedoms Americans share.

“Liberty is more than a word—it is a living idea. It lives in our communities, in our children, and in the moments when neighbors come together,” said Commission Chairman Jay Thompson.  “Our Liberty Tree will greet families each time they enter these fields. As it grows alongside the children who play here, I hope it reminds them of the freedoms we have inherited and our responsibility to carry them forward.”

The Princeton Elm stands on the left as visitors enter the ballpark, with a commemorative plaque at its base. Planted as part of the America 250 Alabama Liberty Tree Legacy Project, it gives families a visible connection to the anniversary each time they visit Liberty Fields.

The $2.08 million park project was more than 15 years in the making. It was funded through a partnership that included $1, 019, 616 from the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs and a $1,080,384 match from the Autauga County Commission.19, 616 from the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs and a $1,080,384 match from the utauga County Commission.

Pine Level Mayor Zachary Bigley delivered the invocation, and the Prattville/Marbury JROTC presented the colors. Director Boswell, speaking on behalf of Governor Kay Ivey, spoke about the park’s lasting impact on young people. Senator Clyde Chambliss attended, and Representative Ivan “Van” Smith recognized the vision, partnership, and commitment to youth and community behind the project.

Following the Liberty Tree recognition and ribbon cutting ceremony for the Liberty Fields Park, Chairman Thompson and Commissioner Bill Tatum threw the first pitches on the two fields. The first games began immediately afterward, filling Liberty Fields with players, families, and the sounds of a new season.

The Liberty Tree will grow alongside the children who play at Pine Level Park. Together, the tree and fields offer Autauga County a lasting place to gather, remember the freedoms that gave Liberty Fields its name, and make new memories for generations to come.