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Tourism agency presents study urging large indoor sports complex, turf and field upgrades
Summary
The Chattanooga Tourism Company and contractor Keer Sports told Hamilton County commissioners that demand for tournament-ready venues outpaces local capacity and recommended a centralized indoor facility, expanded turf fields and further feasibility and funding analysis.
The Chattanooga Tourism Company on April 1 presented a sports facilities feasibility study that recommends Hamilton County pursue a centralized, tournament-ready indoor complex and upgrades to outdoor turf and lighting to capture more sports tourism dollars.
Susan Harris, interim CEO of the Chattanooga Tourism Company, told the commission the study — funded in part by Tennessee Department of Tourist Development ARPA grants — found demand exceeds current venue capacity and that larger, centralized venues increase reliability and event volume. "Demand exceeds our capacity," Harris said, adding that turf, lighting and spectator amenities are priorities to host multi-day youth sports events.
Keer Sports vice president John Deglio summarized the consultant findings, advising an indoor facility that could hold up to 12 basketball courts (convertible to up to 36 pickleball courts) would offer the highest return on investment. He also said multiuse outdoor fields and targeted improvements to the Champion Center and diamond complexes could generate direct economic spend in the millions at full maturity. "One of the keys for rights holders is being in a centralized location," Deglio said.
The presenters said they performed site visits to 16 venues, multiple stakeholder sessions and interviews with sports clients. Keer Sports recommended next steps: a detailed feasibility study and implementation plan, site selection, and developing a capital stack that could include public–private partnerships. Deglio noted the county would need to plan for substantial capital costs but said the market has "a ton of latent demand." The tourism company offered a 30-page summary at the meeting and said the full report is available by request.
Commissioners asked for the full detailed report and for more information about timeline, site options and funding sources. Commissioner Shipley emphasized turf as a local priority; Harris pointed to Camp Jordan investments as an existing anchor and suggested further outdoor investments to complement an indoor hub.
The presentation concluded with no formal action; staff and commissioners indicated they expect follow-up work, including a possible detailed feasibility phase that would outline cost estimates and funding strategies.
