Local News

Consultants report that the expanded Coral Springs Sportsplex could generate as much as $234 million in revenue over the next 20 years

Coral Springs, Florida – A newly released consultants’ report suggests that an expanded Coral Springs Sportsplex could become a major economic driver for the city, potentially generating as much as $234 million in revenue over the next 20 years. The study also estimates that visitor-related spending—including hotel stays, restaurants, and local retail—could inject $20.7 million into the city during the first year of operation.

The report, prepared by Sports Facilities Development LLC, was reviewed by city commissioners at a workshop in October and has now been made public following a records request by TAPinto Coral Springs. On Wednesday, city commissioners approved a $1.5 million contract for the consultant to continue supporting the project, assisting with the design phase and overseeing construction.

The consultants’ study envisions a multi-sport facility built through a public-private venture with 100% equity financing, without relying on bank loans, bonds, or other public funding. Construction costs for the facility are substantial. The indoor/outdoor courts venue is projected to cost $81.9 million, while the aquatics complex would cost $71.2 million.

Read also: Coral Springs High School girls wrestling team finishes second at Bulldog Brawl with standout performances from Nila Smith and Abigail Moyer

According to the study, the expanded sportsplex would include a 224,163 square foot athletic and event center designed to accommodate a wide range of sports and large-scale tournaments. The courts venue would feature eight basketball courts and four specialized courts with “telescopic championship seating” for up to 4,000 spectators. It could also host 24 volleyball courts or 36 pickleball courts by overlaying the basketball court area for tournament use.

The aquatics portion of the sportsplex would be equally ambitious, featuring a 103,704 square foot indoor swimming facility and a 67,000 square foot outdoor area. Highlights would include a 50-meter competition pool, a separate 25-yard lap pool with 10 lanes, a diving competition area, and deck seating for up to 2,500 spectators. The facility would also offer a large fitness center, exercise rooms, a “Family Adventure Center,” meeting spaces, a ballroom, and a catering kitchen to support concessions and event operations.

While the proposed sportsplex promises significant economic benefits, the consultants note that both venues will come with high operating costs. For the aquatics center, expenses for pumps, chemicals, and routine maintenance could result in annual losses of approximately $2.3 million. However, the report projects that these losses would be offset by revenue from the indoor courts facility, which could generate more than $2.8 million in operating cash flow annually during its first decade, rising to nearly $3.3 million per year after 20 years.

The consultants also forecast strong attendance and economic impact from the courts venue. In its first year, the facility could contribute $20 million to the local economy, a figure expected to grow to over $31 million by year five. Similarly, the aquatics center is projected to host 29 competitive swimming meets in its inaugural year and support 45 events annually by the fifth year of operation.

Read also: NYC Halal Eats will open a new fast casual restaurant at the former Dairy Queen location in Coral Springs serving made-to-order halal street food

City officials and consultants alike emphasize that the sportsplex would be more than just a local recreational space. The facility is designed to attract regional tournaments, drawing athletes, families, and spectators from across Florida and beyond. This influx of visitors could create additional revenue streams for local hotels, restaurants, and retail businesses, reinforcing Coral Springs as a destination for sports tourism.

The expanded Sportsplex is poised to serve as a major community asset while also providing long-term financial benefits for the city. With planning and design now underway, Coral Springs officials are moving forward cautiously, balancing ambitious growth with careful fiscal oversight to ensure the project’s sustainability and success.

As city leaders consider the next steps, the consultants’ report provides a detailed roadmap, highlighting both the potential rewards and the operational challenges of one of Coral Springs’ most significant public-private initiatives in years. The coming months will be critical as the project moves from concept to reality, promising a facility that could shape the city’s economic and recreational landscape for decades.

 

Alfred Duncan

Alfred Duncan is a senior editor at The South Florida Daily, where he oversees our coverage of politics, misinformation, health and economics. Alfred is a former reporter and editor for BuzzFeed News, National Geographic and USA Today.

Related Articles

Back to top button