Consultant begins market study for Kingman event and recreation center; USDA grant funds project

City staff reported that a market feasibility study for a potential event and recreational facility in Kingman is underway, funded by a U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Business Development Grant and assigned to CSL International.

Staff said the request for bids was released in August and CSL was approved by City Council in October. The consultants held nine stakeholder sessions with about 46 participants and conducted site tours of available land and existing facilities. Staff summarized preliminary consultant findings: there was “a strong consensus” on the need for a multi‑generational recreational facility, and consultants cautioned most recreation facilities operate at a deficit and that operating costs could reach up to $1 million annually depending on amenities.

To improve financial sustainability, consultants recommended considering a tournament or sports‑event component that, even if used as few as about 15 days per year, could materially offset operating expenses. Next steps include a comparative analysis of regional facilities, a review of national trends, additional community outreach (including a project website and roughly 80–100 citizen interviews) and a final report expected in approximately three months.

Staff said the study will analyze options (recreation center, sports complex, aquatic center or meeting space) and provide cost and maintenance estimates for each option so the city and stakeholders can evaluate which alternatives align with Kingman’s character and growth.