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LODI —
The venerable Grape Bowl stadium in Lodi has been the target of metal thieves during its restoration. About 100 yards of copper cable control cable was taken from the stadium which will cost $7,000 to $10,000 to replace. A few months ago $18,000 worth of wire was taken from the six light towers at the stadium.Lodi interim Park and Recreation director James Rodems says the loss will not affect the completion of a nearly $3 million restoration project which is due to be completed within a month. It is financed by a combination of federal stimulus money, developer fees and donations. But he said it takes money from other park and rec projects.
"We count those pennies closely because we know eventually we'll run out," said Rodems. The redo of the stadium includes new artificial turf which will cut down operating costs and allow the department to rent the facility at a lower rate and allowing more community groups access to the facility. It will also be handicapped accessible. It's been used for events in Lodi since 1940.
"It is frustrating to us because we're trying to put something back in renovating a facility that has been such a great workhorse for the community all these years," said Rodems.
Police will increase patrols at the facility, which is isolated from street traffic. Area residents will be asked to keep an eye out for anything suspicious in the area.
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