Major $65 million Sports Complex in the Pipeline for Lexington County

In a bid to foster wellness and fitness in the community, plans are in motion for a state-of-the-art sports complex in Lexington County. This promising $65 million project, known as the Congaree Sports Complex, is at the forefront of milestones for the Lexington County Recreation and Aging Commission. Backed by Senator Nikki Setzler, it received a recent allocation of $3 million from the newly passed state budget, although it falls $1 million short of their initial request.

Funding for the Project

Remaining funds for the project, amounting to $62 million, are set to be derived from local, regional, and state coffers, supplemented with contributions from the private sector. Senator Setzler, speaking on the development, expressed anticipation at the commencement of a project that has been years in the making. He emphasized that the Lexington County Recreation Commission will act as the fiscal agent for raised funds, with additional backing from other entities within the county and state.

Location and Timeline

The senator did not disclose the exact area where the sports complex would be erected but mentioned that it would be either in West Columbia or Cayce. While there is yet to be a definitive timeline or designs for the project, the recent funding allocation from the state budget prompts hopes of quick advancement.

Economic Impact

One striking aspect of the proposed complex is the anticipated economic boost it will provide to the region. Setzler emphasized that this would predominantly be through the hosting of weekend tournaments promoting sports tourism. Such events attract visitors who utilize local amenities such as hotels, restaurants, and retail shops, contributing significantly to the local economy, particularly for the Cayce and West Columbia areas.

Phased Completion

The massive undertaking is set to be implemented in phases. The first stage consists of installing eight expansive multi-purpose sports fields outfitted with synthetic turf and lights, suitable for a variety of sports including baseball, softball, soccer, and lacrosse. This phase also includes the creation of two large towers housing concession stands.

The second stage involves building a mixed-use indoor sports center with ten regulation basketball courts and twenty volleyball courts, along with ample parking, a running track, and indoor concession areas.

The projected completion cost for the initial phase is $25 million, with $2 million dedicated to property and infrastructure. The subsequent stage is estimated to come in at $40 million.

Easy Access and Convenience

As Senator Setzler completes his final term in the Senate, he envisions this future complex’s strategic location alongside multiple interstate highways as providing easy access for athletes and their families all over the Southeast. The development of this sports facility not only denotes a monumental stride in community recreation but also a significant driver in the regional economic development plan.