HELENA, Mt. – A new $80 million sports complex is being proposed in the Helena, Mt.-area.
Since 2015 when a local college closed its swimming pool to the public, the Helena Regional Sports Association has been working to fill that gap. As reported by Helena Independent Record, these efforts have morphed into the proposed complex, dubbed “The Arc,” which would include an Olympic-sized lap pool, basketball courts, an indoor turf field, classrooms, and a 9,000-seat arena. The expanded project is being proposed in partnership with the Lewis & Cark County Fairgrounds.
In the article, fairgrounds manager Kevin Tenney said while the complex is “just an idea,” if it comes to fruition, it is very difficult to measure the impact it would have on Helena. He added that the fairgrounds need an expansion, but it is impossible in its current state.
Another factor in the increased scope of the complex is that an economic study revealed a smaller facility wouldn’t generate enough revenue, according to the article.
Because of the $80 million cost, it is reported a mill levy will need to be established for it to be feasible. Tenney notes the final decision would be made by the county’s commissioners.
Paul Landes, a member of the Helena Regional Sports Association’s board, says he believes there is an evident need for the sports complex in the community.
