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Highlands County reviews TDC study that recommends turf, fairgrounds upgrades and P3 funding to grow sports tourism
Summary
The Highlands County Tourism Development Council presented a $65,000 countywide facility study recommending targeted upgrades to Max Long, the county sports complex, Lake June and the fairgrounds to boost sports tourism; consultants outlined P3 lease models, cost estimates and timelines and commissioners requested further analysis on community access and fiscal risk.
The Highlands County Tourism Development Council on Nov. 4 presented findings from a $65,000 countywide facility study and recommended targeted investments to grow sports tourism while preserving community access. The presentation, delivered to the Board of County Commissioners, outlined options ranging from turf and field reconfigurations at Max Long and the county sports complex to an 80,000-square-foot concept for the fairgrounds and an indoor facility concept tied to a donated parcel.
TDC presenter Casey said the TDC paid for the comprehensive study so the county did not have to split costs among applicants. “So the TDC... we will just pay for the entire study,” Casey said, describing the intent to use tourism-development-tax research to direct investment where it will both drive visitors and improve local amenities.
Why it matters: consultants said Highlands County’s central location and smaller-market advantages make it attractive to…
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