The Fort Walton Beach City Council voted 5-1 on Tuesday to approve an $8 million expansion of the Preston Hood Athletic Complex, a move aimed at enhancing recreational opportunities for residents and boosting sports tourism in the area.

The ambitious expansion project will significantly augment the existing complex, adding four multi-purpose synthetic turf fields, a 13-court pickleball complex with eight covered courts, a basketball court, and a playground area. 

• The plans also include a new parks facility building, a restroom and concession area, and over 350 parking spaces to accommodate increased visitor traffic.

City Manager Jeff Peters emphasized the project’s role in centralizing the city’s sports programs. 

“This would allow us to bring all of our athletics contests to the same location, so parents with children of different ages don’t have to be in different locations at once,” Peters said. He noted that while existing facilities like Ferry Park would still be used for practices, the expanded complex would serve as a hub for games and tournaments.

• The decision to use synthetic turf for the multi-purpose fields was highlighted as a cost-effective choice that would reduce maintenance needs and allow for more consistent play conditions throughout the year.

Councilman David Schmidt expressed strong support for the project, citing its potential to attract sports tourism and generate economic benefits. Schmidt also noted that the complex would enhance the quality of life for local residents, potentially attracting new families and businesses to the area. 

“This type of environment that we’re building…is not only attracting the sports talent, but talent of folks both local and that come from afar to view this area, to be a part of this area,” he added.

Councilman Nic Allegretto, who had initially opposed the project years ago when the land was considered for sale, acknowledged his change of heart as he voiced his full support for the expansion. 

• “You live and learn…you get these experiences and you learn more about what people want in the city, what people expect to see, and what improves our quality of life,” Allegretto said. He emphasized that the complex would benefit residents, visitors, and local businesses alike.

Councilman John Mead shared an anecdote illustrating the existing complex’s positive impact on local businesses, recalling a conversation he had after the athletic complex was originally built. 

“A local hotel owner came to me and said…the rec center has brought so much revenue, so many new people to the city that would have never come here,” Mead recounted. He added that while recreation facilities might not directly generate profit, they provide invaluable amenities that enhance the city’s appeal.

The council authorized Bear General Contractors of Pensacola to construct the expansion for $7,962,107.15, plus an additional $100,000 allowance for waste disposal. The city manager was also authorized to approve change orders up to 10% of the bid amount and to pursue financing options for the project.

• City officials noted that the project would be funded through a combination of half-cent sales tax revenue, Tourism Development Council funds, and financing options, rather than directly impacting property taxes. Final funding options will come back to council for final approval.

As the project moves forward, city officials anticipate that the expanded Preston Hood Athletic Complex will not only serve local sports enthusiasts but also position Fort Walton Beach as a premier destination for regional sports tournaments and events, potentially drawing visitors year-round and contributing to the local economy.