PRATT, Kan. — The City of Pratt will celebrate the groundbreaking of the Point Pavilion on Wednesday, Oct. 28, marking the beginning of construction on a multimillion-dollar indoor sports and recreation facility designed to attract athletic tournaments, expand recreational opportunities and boost the local economy.
The groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. east of the Bill Keller Family Sports Complex, located at 2211 E. Sixth St. City officials and project representatives are expected to attend.
The Point Pavilion will feature approximately 109,000 square feet of indoor space, providing year-round facilities for athletic competitions, practices and community events.
The project is estimated to cost between $12.2 million and $14.4 million, with city officials seeking to complete the full development at an estimated cost of $14.4 million.
According to project information, construction funding will come from a combination of a $2.6 million Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks grant, $2 million in hotel guest tax revenues and private donations. The city says no property or sales tax revenue will be used to pay for construction.
Among the facility's planned features are nearly 10,000 square feet of dedicated wrestling space capable of accommodating four college-size mats, six championship-quality tennis courts that can be converted into five college basketball courts, and a 90-by-200-foot indoor turf area.
The building will also include four locker rooms, five restrooms, a training room, three coaches' offices and more than 2,000 square feet of suite space overlooking the track.
The pavilion will serve as the new home for Pratt Recreation offices and Visit Pratt, providing a central location for recreational programming and visitor information.
Outdoor amenities are also planned, including four pickleball courts, a basketball court, turf pitch-and-putt golf, an outdoor gathering area and walking trails connecting the facility to the city's existing Green Trails system.
City officials envision the complex becoming a regional destination for sporting events, particularly youth and collegiate competitions.
Mid-America Youth Basketball has expressed interest in bringing five to 10 weekend tournaments to the facility, while Pratt Community College hopes to host men's and women's basketball jamborees.
Four NCAA Division I tennis programs have committed to competing at the facility, including Army, which is expected to participate in the inaugural event.
Discussions are also underway with the National Junior College Athletic Association about establishing a national indoor tennis tournament in Pratt.
The pavilion could also help attract Kansas State High School Activities Association postseason track meets, Region VI junior college track competitions, wrestling tournaments and summer sports camps.
Project organizers estimate that a single weekend sports tournament can generate approximately $300,000 in economic activity for Pratt through spending on hotels, restaurants, shopping and other services.
Supporters believe hosting multiple events throughout the year could provide a significant economic boost while encouraging future business development.
The facility is intended to complement, rather than replace, the existing Blythe Family Fitness Center. While Blythe will continue hosting activities such as volleyball and gymnastics, the Point Pavilion will focus primarily on athletic practices, competitions and larger events.
Beyond sports, the complex is expected to provide space for trade shows, community gatherings and other activities.
Plans also call for approximately 100 additional permanent parking spaces, with overflow parking available for larger events.
City officials anticipate the facility will provide greater flexibility for local recreation programs, particularly when extreme temperatures or inclement weather make outdoor activities difficult.