The City of Kearney held its groundbreaking ceremony at the future site of Kearney SportsPlex today.
The Tuesday morning ceremony drew well over 100 people from the community. Those in attendance included the Kearney Chamber of Commerce, the Buffalo County Commissioners, business leaders, and such.
The ceremony was opened up with remarks from City of Kearney Mayor Stan Clouse, followed by words from City Manager Mike Morgan.
“Over 100 million dollars in capital improvement projects have been supported by the citizens of Kearney. So, when people ask all the time how do you get it done? It’s pretty simple, you get it done because the citizens of Kearney support us” said Morgan.
In addition, Morgan went on to say the project is largest single capital improvement project for the community in 150 years.
Attendees also had the chance to hear from the head person of the project, SportsPlex Manager Lauren Brandt.
“We’re witnesses the beginning of a premier facility that will serve as an economic asset for tourism and growth. While facilitating access to recreational and sports programing. This will enhance the quality of life for Kearney citizens and Buffalo County and beyond.”
The project was made possible from the combined effort of city leaders, community members, voters, and Nebraska.
“This morning’s celebration of the sportsplex groundbreaking is icing on the cake. But what truly matters, is how Kearney has united to not only to enhance lives of current citizens, but also prepare for the enhancement of our future generations.” said Brandt.
SportsPlex Manager Lauren Brandt
The SportsPlex is planned to be three times the size of the Ernst Grundy Tennis Center. Located of Interstate 80, the 209,000 square foot facility will offer a year-round, climate-controlled site to play. The facility will feature the following:
- Over 59,000 square feet of hardwood gymnasium space designed for 8 basketball courts with conversion to 12 volleyball courts, allowance for 20+ wrestling mats, and spectator bleachers
- More than 66,000 square feet of premium turf field customizable for multiple-sized soccer fields for all ages, three drop-down net batting cages, and various other turf sports
- Four pickleball courts plus spectator seating, comprised of over 9,000 square feet
- 24,000 plus square feet available for a three-lane, 300-meter, full corners,
running/walking track.
The SportsPlex is anticipated to be completed late 2024 or early 2025.
