DOVER — The bid proposal deadline to construct a sports facility designed to bring big money into Kent County has been moved back to Oct. 15, an official said this week.
Kent County Regional Sports Complex Corp. Acting Executive Director Shelly Cecchett said the move was made due to a high volume of interest and questions regarding the $24 million project that’s still on solid ground.
When completed, backers say the complex known as “The Turf” could generate up to $30 million in economic impact to Kent County if 10 large scale sports tournaments are held annually.
The projected facility is situated next to Del. 1 in the Frederica area, and will include 12 synthetic turf fields with lights and amenities. A permanent KCRSC Corp. Executive Director will be hired along with staff to manage operations.
The state of Delaware has allocated $4 million toward erecting “The Turf” — $3.2 million through its Infrastructure Fund and $800,000 included in the Bond Bill.
The remaining $20 million in funding will come through bond sales, according to organizers, with Kent County’s Levy Court serving as the conduit between the KCRSC Corp. and M&T Bank.
Earlier, organizers said there are plans for “The Turf” to debut on Columbus Day weekend 2016.