Southern Utah University plans $6M sports facility renovations to boost tourism

The Iron County Commission meeting on April 14, 2025, highlighted significant developments aimed at enhancing sports tourism and community facilities in the region. A key focus was the proposal for a multi-faceted athletic facility project presented by Southern Utah University (SUU) representatives Doug Nuth and John Oglesby. This initiative seeks to transform existing sports infrastructure to better serve both the university and the broader community.

The proposed project includes renovating the America First Event Center, commonly known as the Centrum, to accommodate more events and alleviate scheduling conflicts for university athletic teams. The renovation aims to create a dual-court practice facility, which would not only benefit SUU's basketball and volleyball teams but also open up opportunities for community events and youth sports.

In addition to the Centrum renovation, the project plans to install a synthetic turf field for soccer and softball, which would allow for year-round use, addressing the challenges posed by seasonal weather conditions. A significant feature of this proposal is the construction of an air-supported dome over the soccer field, providing a controlled environment for indoor sports during winter months. This facility is expected to host various community events, including youth sports leagues and tournaments, thereby boosting local engagement and economic activity.

The commission discussed the financial aspects of the project, with a total estimated cost of approximately $6.1 million. The county is being asked to contribute $2.75 million, which would be allocated over several years. This funding is anticipated to come from the transient room tax and restaurant tax revenues, reflecting a strategic investment in sports tourism that aims to enhance the local economy.

Concerns were raised about ensuring community access to these facilities, particularly regarding scheduling priorities between university events and public use. The commissioners emphasized the importance of establishing clear agreements to guarantee that local residents and organizations can benefit from the new facilities.

In a related discussion, the commission also considered a proposal for a practical shooting range on county-owned land. This facility aims to support the growing interest in practical shooting sports, which has the potential to attract tourism and provide a safe training environment for law enforcement and community members alike.

Overall, the meeting underscored a collaborative effort between the university, local government, and community stakeholders to enhance Iron County's sports infrastructure, promote tourism, and foster community engagement through improved facilities. The proposed projects are seen as vital steps toward positioning Iron County as a hub for sports and recreational activities in Southern Utah.