CHELAN/DOUGLAS COUNTIES, Wash. – A recent feasibility study highlighted the need for a regional indoor sports facility in Washington’s Chelan and Douglas counties.
As reported by local radio station 560 KPQ, the Chelan Douglas Regional Port Authority commissioned the study.
The article states that the consulting firm conducting the study, BerryDunn, identified a local need for an indoor competition-size pool and fields for rugby, lacrosse, and soccer.
The first phase of the study also indicated that while the area has several baseball and softball diamonds, they are “scattered,” which limits the ability to host larger events.
According to the article, the “heavy presence of unhealthy smoke” in the area also builds the argument for indoor sports facilities. The study shows there were more than 90 days in the area when the Air Quality Index (AQI) was over 100. NCAA standards call for sports event organizers to consider moving sensitive athletes from outdoor venues when AQI is over 100.
In conclusion, KPQ reports the study calls for an indoor sports complex with basketball and multi-purpose courts; indoor turf fields for soccer, football, lacrosse, baseball, and softball; an indoor walking track; and additional space to host volleyball.
The study also found residents want to see more pickleball fields and prefer an indoor aquatic facility to replace an existing outdoor pool in Wenatchee.
