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Greater Williamsburg Sports & Events Center to open June 24; county commits near-term operating support
Summary
County and HTRFA officials outlined the 160,000 sq ft Greater Williamsburg Sports & Events Center scope, an $80 million construction cost under contract, programming plans and a near-term county operating subsidy ranging from $300,000 to $800,000 per year depending on performance.
County Administrator introduced the project team and said the Greater Williamsburg Sports & Events Center will officially open June 24, 2026, adding the facility represents years of regional planning. "The facility open officially opens on 06/24/2026," Dana Youst, executive director of the Historic Triangle Recreation Facilities Authority, said during the presentation.
The project was described by county staff as a 160,000-square-foot regional facility that was built largely to scope and budget expectations discussed two years ago. The county administrator told the board the capital cost under contract is about $80,000,000 and that the City of Williamsburg is the primary backer for debt service, covering roughly $2.5 million annually. He said James City County's support for initial operating and capital-reserve needs could range from $300,000 to $800,000 per year depending on the facility's early operations and cash reserves.
Kemper Sports' general manager Ben Hardwin said the operator has booked more than 100 confirmed events, is negotiating many more and plans both tournament and non-sport programming to keep the venue active year-round. "We have well over a 100 events secured," Hardwin said, and described an operating model that includes a pay-for-play resident drop-in program, leagues and broader conference, banquet and community events.
Hardwin also listed key hires and operational roles (sales and marketing, sports operations, facilities maintenance, guest services, culinary) and emphasized programming aimed at both residents and visitors. Dana Youst said the facility was designed to create a full visitor and community experience, from an adventure gym to large-scale event spaces.
The board did not change the financing arrangement at the presentation but later approved a plan-of-finance resolution (separately recorded) that aggregates capital borrowing for the government's capital program, including this facility among other projects. Officials said a grand-opening program will include tours and a formal program beginning at 4:00 p.m.
