by Neil W. McCabe

The two members of the city’s Beacon Hill delegation who represent whose districts include Dilboy Field announced Sept. 13 that they have secured the state funding needed to renovate the field.

“I am thrilled to see that this long-awaited project is finally nearing fruition,” said State Sen. Charles E. Shannon, D-Somerville, a member of the Senate Ways and Means Committee.

“This is a great day for the children of Somerville,” said State Rep. Vincent P. Ciampa, D-Somerville, the House vice-chairman of the Joint Committee on Taxation.

“They deserve a first-class sports facility, and Senator Shannon and I have been working tirelessly to make sure they get one,” Ciampa said.

Shannon said he has been actively pursuing funds for needed repairs and renovations at Dilboy so it can once again be fully utilized for the enjoyment of the city’s youth.

Shannon said that he and Ciampa successfully secured $8 million in funding for Dilboy Stadium, as their joint earmarking requests were approved as part of the new fiscal year 2004 supplemental budget passed by the legislature Sept. 9.

“However, I will temper my enthusiasm until I am absolutely certain Governor Romney does not veto this money,” Shannon said.

Shannon said he hand-delivered a personal appeal to Romney last week, urging him to retain the $8 million earmarking, so the project can move forward without any further delays.

The governor has until Sept. 19 to sign the bill and issue any vetoes, Shannon said.