The South Bend Park Board has approved a long-term extension to the existing stadium operations and management agreement with the South Bend Cubs.

Professional baseball contributes roughly $25 million a year in direct and induced economic impact to the region, according to Aaron Perri, Director of South Bend Venues, Parks and Arts.

Given that, the agreement between the City and the South Bend Cubs now goes until the year 2041.

The deal comes as South Bend has been invited to move up to High-A status – bringing more talented players and a higher caliber of play on the field.