Dozens of community members turned out Tuesday as the City of Gadsden and Gadsden State Community College cut the ribbon on Phase I of the new Gadsden Sports Park.
“What a beautiful place this is, and I want to say to the mayor, city council and all of those who have been involved, kudos to you,” said Dr. Kathy Murphy, President of GSCC. “Today is a perfect example of what we can do and accomplish together.”
PHOTOS: Gadsden Sports Park Ribbon Cutting
Phase I of the project turned the former fisheries area of Gadsden State into three NCAA-sized multipurpose athletic fields with a concessions and restroom facility along with a lighted walking trail surrounding a pond.
The idea for the Gadsden Sports Park began about three years ago as Mayor Sherman Guyton said City officials noticed how quickly interest in soccer was growing.
It also presented an opportunity to improve Gadsden State, the City and riverfront development.
“We felt a high-quality sports park would benefit us all,” said Frankie Davis, director of Governmental Affairs and Economic Development for the City.
Phase II of the project is more than halfway complete, and it is focused on rebuilding and improving the baseball and softball fields at the complex, along with an extensive renovation of the press box and concession building.
Phase III is currently being designed, and it will focus on a special needs-accessible Champions Field alongside four pickleball courts.
“This is going to be a really big thing, I believe,” said Mayor Sherman Guyton. “I appreciate all the folks who worked with us.”
The Gadsden Sports Park provides improved recreation opportunities for Gadsden and Etowah County along with the potential of drawing competitors from the surrounding area to Gadsden.
“I look forward to seeing you on the field here soon,” Guyton said.
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