LAFAYETTE PARISH, La. – The Lafayette Convention & Visitors Commission (LCVC) and its partners are pursuing a state-of-the-art indoor sports facility.
The announcement comes after months of discussions with hoteliers and moteliers interested in supporting tourism efforts and expanding economic growth. An independent study commissioned by the LCVC with the Huddle Up Group (HUG) followed.
After assessing all sports venues in Lafayette Parish, HUG concluded the area lacks an indoor facility to host major sporting events.
“This is a historic announcement for Lafayette Parish and the region and will be a game changer for the tourism economy,” says Ben Berthelot, LCVC president and CEO. “With the support seen from the hotel-motel community from day one, and the ability to drive an additional 30,000 plus hotel and motel plus room nights per year, I think it’s evident this is a pivotal moment. It’s also another great example of a project where quality of life for our residents and the tourism economy both win. We can’t wait for it to come to fruition, and we look forward to getting to work selling the facility.”
The multi-use facility will allow for a minimum of eight basketball courts; 16 volleyball courts; and would provide opportunities to host pickleball, wrestling, and other sporting events. HUG and Lafayette Travel estimate a minimum of 30,000 new room nights a year will be generated from the facility if built.
“An indoor facility will position Lafayette Parish to host state, regional, and national tournaments,” Lafayette Mayor Josh Guillory says. “Our people shouldn’t be forced to travel to facilities in other states when we have an opportunity to have our own state-of-the-art facility in our community.”
Funding for the project will come from a two percent self-imposed assessment of hotels and motels in Lafayette Parish.
“Investing in such facilities diversifies the offerings of our region. Beyond tourism, it can attract sports-related businesses, training camps, and conferences further benefiting hotels, restaurants, and retail,” says Ricky Patel, LCVC board of directors vice president. “It will also promote a healthier lifestyle and foster a sense of community pride.”
