The “Field of Dreams” in Bayonne – a baseball field and park for children with special needs, opened on Saturday.

“We're here today for our children. They really set the tone, and we do everything for them,” said Pete Amadeo, Bayonne’s superintendent for recreation.

The baseball field and park were made possible by $2.4 million in county, state and federal grants. It's home to what's called Buddy Baseball, a program that provides more than 150 children with the space and support they need to enjoy America's favorite pastime.

The developer, Rich Picerno, owner of Picsrno-Giordano Construction said they didn't spare any expense. The park has sensory areas, a playground, enhanced safety features, new dug outs and bleachers and increased accessibility.

“Having an autistic grandson, this is near and dear to my heart. It’s a special place,” said Rich Picerno. “It wasn't a job for us, it wasn't a project for us. It was part of what we want to do to pay it forward back to this community.”

The community paid it forward to the man they say has shaped the program into what it is now with a surprise. The scoreboard reads the name of Pete Amadeo.

“Every city in New Jersey should have a Pete Amadeo,” said Mayor Jimmy Davis.

“We have a lot of kids that have been with us for 10 years. To see them grow emotionally is special,” said Amadeo.

The event began with a parade and Opening Day ceremony as the City of Bayonne celebrated their 10th anniversary of Buddy Baseball.

“Being a mother of a child on the spectrum, there's not a lot for them to do,” said Eleanor Clark, Bayonne. “When we moved to Bayonne this was like a family. There are a of things for these children to do. And I'm so grateful to be a part of it, me and my family.”

The season goes until mid-June and there’s no fee to participate. For more information, please contact Pete Amadeo at 201-858-6129 or email BAYONNEREC@AOL.COM.