Kanawha officials release summary of Charleston’s Capital Sports Center for public comment

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WCHS) — Officials are accepting public comments regarding the development of the Capital Sports Center, a multimillion dollar project slated for Charleston.

The city of Charleston and Kanawha County Commission have published a summary of the project that includes facility recommendations and a market analysis along with financial and economic impact projections created by the Sports Facilities Advisory.

The project aims to “become a hub for sports, recreation, competition and events that attract non-local visitors to Charleston” in order to fill hotel rooms and encourage spending at area businesses.

A recommendation based on market research outlines multiple areas and amenities that would include support and administrative spaces within each area:

• FIRST FLOOR: Basketball, volleyball and pickleball courts along with a family entertainment center and food and beverage services
• SECOND FLOOR: Fitness center, group exercise rooms and a walking track
• THIRD FLOOR: Additional basketball and volleyball courts
• MEZZANINE: Spectator areas

The recommendations support the construction of an indoor aquatics center during a later phase of development. The facility would feature a 50-meter pool that would cost between $36 to $57 million to build.

A financial forecasts suggests the facility would generate nearly $3 million in revenue after five years of operation.

Each out-of-town visitor is estimated to spend roughly $140 to $150 per day outside the facility for lodging, food and entertainment which could translate to $7,400 in economic impact year one. That number is projected to exceed $20,000 by the facility’s fifth year of operation.

Last month saw a ceremonial start of the complex as heavy equipment worked to demolish the former Macy’s building with work projected to be complete by 2027.

Public comments may be submitted via email to info@kanawha.us and will be accepted until June 30.