Pop Lloyd Stadium Reopens Under Mayor Marty Small Sr.’s Leadership: A Historic Investment in Community, Culture, and Opportunity
April 29, 2025 – Atlantic City, NJ — Under the visionary leadership of Mayor Marty Small Sr., the City of Atlantic City has proudly reopened Pop Lloyd Stadium following a transformative $5.6 million renovation project—one that underscores this administration’s continued investment in public spaces, local heritage, and the next generation.
Located in the city’s Northside and named after Negro League Hall of Famer John Henry “Pop” Lloyd, the stadium now stands as a modern, multi-sport facility and cultural touchstone. The project, driven by Mayor Small’s commitment since 2019 to revitalize Atlantic City’s assets, marks a major milestone in improving quality of life for residents and creating lasting community infrastructure.
“This is a gift for the community—something that reflects where we’ve been and where we’re going.” said Mayor Small.
A Vision Realized
Mayor Small first laid out the vision for Pop Lloyd Stadium’s transformation on November 8, 2019, shortly after assuming office. What followed was a collaborative, community-focused effort that culminated in Tuesday’s ribbon-cutting, where residents, leaders, and former Negro League athletes gathered to celebrate the stadium’s rebirth.
The $5.6 million investment—funded largely through the American Rescue Plan—completely reimagined the facility. The overgrown, deteriorated field has been replaced by navy blue artificial turf with red infield accents, and the stadium now includes:
New bleachers and dugouts
Modern lighting and fencing
Upgraded restrooms, locker rooms, and sound system
A digital scoreboard and multi-sport configuration
These improvements will support baseball, softball, flag football, and other community sports, creating opportunities for youth and adult leagues alike.
Honoring a Cultural Icon
Pop Lloyd Stadium is more than an athletic venue. It’s a living tribute to John Henry “Pop” Lloyd, one of the greatest shortstops in Negro League history and a cherished member of Atlantic City’s local school system in his later years.
“Pop Lloyd is a part of American history,” said Councilman Kaleem Shabazz during the ceremony.
“If there wasn’t segregation, he would’ve been a Major League star. This stadium is not just a field—it’s a legacy we must protect.”
The reopening included remarks from 90-year-old Atlantic City resident Ron Jordan, who remembered Lloyd from his time as a school custodian, and Pedro Sierra, an 86-year-old former Negro League pitcher who traveled from Florida to witness the event.
“Pop Lloyd loved the game. He loved this community. He’d be proud to see this,” Sierra said.
A Broader Commitment to Atlantic City
Pop Lloyd Stadium is one of several community investment projects under Mayor Small’s administration. Just weeks earlier, the city reopened the Atlantic City Aquarium following a similar revitalization effort—also made possible through American Rescue Plan funding.
“We’re not just talking about change—we’re delivering it,” Mayor Small said.
“These are quality-of-life projects that reflect our commitment to putting Atlantic City residents first.”
City Business Administrator Anthony Swan emphasized the need for ongoing stewardship of the new facility:
“We spent a lot of time, money, and effort to bring this to the community. Let’s make sure we protect it.”
Full-Circle Moments
The day was especially meaningful for Mike Griffin, Director of Recreation, who grew up near the stadium and now oversees its programming.
“I used to ride past this stadium as a kid, watching casino leagues play,” Griffin said.
“Now I get to lead the charge in making this a hub for youth and adult sports. It’s surreal—and it’s just the beginning.”
The stadium’s first game—a high school baseball match between Atlantic City and Oakcrest—is set for Thursday, 5/1, with summer leagues and events to follow.
This project is part of Mayor Marty Small Sr.’s administration-wide commitment to community revitalization, cultural preservation, and building an Atlantic City residents can be proud to call home.
