Cooley Law School Stadium | Lansing

Cooley Law School Stadium, now known as Jackson Field, is a major sports and entertainment venue located in downtown Lansing, Michigan. It primarily serves as the home stadium for the Lansing Lugnuts, a Minor League Baseball team affiliated with the Oakland Athletics, but also hosts a variety of other sports, community events, and entertainment activities.

Historical Development and Naming

The stadium opened on April 3, 1996, originally named Oldsmobile Park, marking a key milestone in downtown Lansing’s revitalization efforts. It was constructed to replace a block of commercial storefronts along East Michigan Avenue, aiming to boost economic activity in the city’s core by bringing professional baseball and other attractions to the area.

In 2010, the stadium’s naming rights were acquired by the Thomas M. Cooley Law School, a prominent Michigan law school based in Lansing, leading to its renaming as Cooley Law School Stadium. This partnership highlighted the importance of integrating educational institutions with community landmarks.

In 2020, the stadium was renamed Jackson Field following a new sponsorship agreement with Jackson National Life Insurance Company, a Michigan-based financial services company. The change reflected ongoing investment and local corporate support for the venue and the Lansing community.

Architecture and Facilities

Designed by the architectural firm HNTB Corporation, Jackson Field was built with a seating capacity of approximately 7,500 fixed seats, with additional lawn seating and standing-room areas allowing for crowds over 10,000 on special occasions. The stadium’s design balances intimacy and visibility, providing fans with close-up views of the field from nearly every seat.

The playing surface is natural grass, maintained to professional standards, with field dimensions measuring approximately 305 feet down the left and right field lines and 404 feet to center field. These dimensions create a balanced environment for baseball, offering both home run potential and strategic play.

The stadium includes modern amenities such as concession stands, team merchandise shops, comfortable seating, family-friendly zones, and group hospitality areas. It also features locker rooms, media facilities, and training rooms to accommodate both players and staff.

Sports and Events

While Jackson Field is primarily known as a baseball stadium and the home of the Lansing Lugnuts since its inception, it has hosted a variety of sporting events beyond baseball:

Soccer: In 2019, Jackson Field served as the home field for Lansing Ignite FC, a professional soccer team competing in the USL League One. The team played its inaugural season here, utilizing the field’s adaptable layout to accommodate soccer matches.

Rugby: The stadium has hosted high-profile rugby events, including the "Battle for the Mitten," a fierce rivalry match between Michigan State University and the University of Michigan rugby teams. These matches attracted significant local attention and large crowds.

Beyond sports, Jackson Field has become a versatile venue for community events:

Concerts: The stadium is a site for concerts and music festivals, including performances tied to the annual Common Ground Music Festival. Its open-air design and capacity make it suitable for mid-size live events.

Ice Skating: During winter months, the stadium has occasionally been converted into an outdoor ice skating rink, offering a seasonal recreational activity that draws families and visitors.

Outdoor Movies and Festivals: Jackson Field has hosted outdoor movie nights and various cultural festivals, contributing to Lansing’s vibrant community life.

Economic and Community Impact

Jackson Field has played a significant role in revitalizing downtown Lansing, attracting visitors and locals alike to engage in sports and entertainment. Its presence supports nearby businesses such as restaurants, hotels, and retail stores, fostering economic growth in the area.

The stadium is managed by the Lansing Entertainment & Public Facilities Authority (LEPFA), ensuring its operations align with community interests and maintain high standards for visitor experience.

Visitor Information

Location: 505 East Michigan Avenue, Lansing, Michigan, situated centrally in downtown Lansing with easy access to public transportation and parking facilities.

Seating Capacity: Approximately 7,500 fixed seats, with additional room for lawn seating and standing areas.

Accessibility: The stadium is equipped with accessible seating and facilities for individuals with disabilities, including ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.

Amenities: Multiple concession stands offering a variety of food and beverage options, souvenir shops, family-friendly zones, picnic areas, and hospitality suites.

Box Office and Tickets: Tickets for Lansing Lugnuts games and other events can be purchased online or at the box office located on-site.

Summary

Jackson Field, formerly Cooley Law School Stadium, stands as a cornerstone of Lansing’s sports culture and downtown entertainment scene. From its origins as a baseball park revitalizing the city’s core to its evolution into a multi-purpose venue hosting soccer, rugby, concerts, and seasonal events, it remains a vibrant hub that brings together sports fans, families, and community members. Its modern facilities, accessibility, and diverse programming ensure it continues to serve as a beloved gathering place and economic driver for Lansing and the surrounding region.