Columbia County updates survey work on 500‑acre regional sports park; timeline depends on funding

Columbia County staff told the Tourist Development Council on Oct. 25 that surveying and wetland delineation are under way for phase 1 of a proposed 500‑acre regional sports park, but that no construction timeline can be set until engineering is complete and funding sources are identified.

Speaker 2 said crews are surveying and marking wetlands for phase 1 and that engineers are working on building layouts for entry and concession buildings. “Everything moving forward is just this is a slow process right now with the survey and engineering,” Speaker 2 said, adding the county is “very fortunate to have a good partner with FWC.”

Board members raised timing questions about when the soccer and flat fields would be available. Speaker 2 said the schedule will depend on whether the county pursues a public‑private partnership, county funding, or a legislative appropriation; once engineering for phase 1 is complete, staff will have a clearer timeline.

Speaker 8 urged collective outreach to the state legislature once conceptual drawings and cost estimates are ready, recommending a delegation visit to Tallahassee during “rural days” to solicit appropriations. The board discussed coordinating such outreach with staff in January when planning for advocacy.

Members said the park could have a regional economic impact by hosting tournaments and niche outdoor events; staff noted the project remains in early engineering and survey stages and requires additional funding before construction can begin. The update closed with staff committing to provide future engineering reports and a more detailed funding strategy.