Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Sports Park topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council approves $40 million for indoor phase of proposed regional sports park; staff to pursue additional funding
Summary
After presentations on a multi-phased 141,000-square-foot indoor sports facility and expanded outdoor turf complex, the council approved $40 million for the building phase and directed staff to seek additional funding sources; the motion passed 6-1.
City and private partners presented a multi-phase plan for the proposed Lawton Court Veil Sports Park, describing an indoor facility with eight basketball courts convertible to volleyball/pickleball and two indoor turf fields, plus a large outdoor complex of multiuse turf fields and parking.
Brian Cannon of Eastern Sports Management and PlayLaw representatives described a 141,000-square-foot facility and a phased plan that could grow total project cost to the high tens of millions once all outdoor turf fields and parking are included. Presenters estimated substantial economic impact from regional tournaments and out-of-town visitors.
Council debated phasing, outside funding and the prior allocation of ARPA funds. One councilmember moved to approve $40,000,000 to build the indoor facility and directed staff to seek other funding sources (including investigating previously allocated ARPA balances and naming-rights/private donations). The motion passed 6-1.
Council and staff said the approved amount targets the building phase; staff will return with funding options and a proposed financing plan for remaining phases. Presenters noted private donations, a McMahon Foundation pledge and unsuccessful federal/state grant applications to date; they said additional local philanthropy and stacked grant strategies remain under exploration.
