‘Capitol Sports Complex’ plans change

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) – Plans for a new sports complex where Macy’s once stood in downtown Charleston are experiencing some changes before construction is projected to begin in about six months.

Kanawha County Commissioner Ben Salango said the original plan for included amenities has changed.

“The one portion that we haven’t been able to get the space for yet is the aquatic center,” Salango said. “Ideally we’ll be able to do that at some point. Unfortunately, with construction costs on the rise, they’re up about 30 percent over the last couple of years.”

He also said the aquatic center was something that he was hopeful for, but it would’ve required the property where Macy’s once was and the parking garage next to it.

“I was disappointed, we worked for a year and a half to try to get the land to build the aquatic center,” Salango said.

The original name for the facility was supposed to be the “Capitol Sports Complex” but after review, that will be changed as well.

“There are three other complexes in the United States called the Capitol Sports Complex, so when you’re branding, when you’re marketing, you want something that’s unique.”

Salango said the complex could bring in as much as $20-$30 million each year, and it’s projected to be finished by late 2026.

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