A plan to convert part of Knoxville's municipal public golf course into a public-private multisport complex is starting to move ahead. The new facility would accommodate local leagues and large-scale tournaments.
The Knoxville City Council approved the initial plan Aug. 18 and will work with the city-county Sports Authority to request proposals from private developers. The selected developer would decrease the course from 18 holes to nine and dedicate half the land to sports fields and facilities.
The redevelopment isn't a done deal. The Sports Authority will determine if it wants to move forward when it meets later this month. Upon its decision, a public process will be laid out with a clearer timeline.
How could a multisport complex benefit Knoxville?
Visit Knoxville determined the city lacks
rectangular sports fields for local and visiting recreational teams. Its president, Kim Bumpas, told Knox News the complex could attract national tournaments on the weekends, bringing more business to restaurants and hotels.
City leaders say a nine-hole course would match the evolving needs of the golf community and refresh the experiences of longtime users. The course would remain open to the public.
How will construction be financed?
The city has owned the course at 3925 Schaad Road since 1984 and would enter into a long-term lease with the developers instead of selling it.
The Sports Authority would retain a financing team to pay for the redevelopment on debt if the city council and county commission approve.
The financing plan would be paid back through revenue generated by the redevelopment. The commercial portion could generate property tax revenue, and the city and county would be responsible for any shortfalls.
Sophia Tiedge is the growth and transformation reporter for Knox News. Email: sophia.tiedge@knoxnews.com
This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: Knoxville multisport complex on public golf course land clears first hurdle
