POWDER SPRINGS, Ga. — A groundbreaking was held for a $10 million sports complex in Powder Springs on Tuesday.
The Westside Woods Sports Complex will focus on soccer and other activities in August 2020 along Hill Road, just off Highway 278. The complex spans about 22 acres, and features of an indoor soccer field, offices, concession area, bar, retail spaces and conference rooms.
The outdoor development will include three full-size turf soccer fields with lights and two futsal courts that could also be used as a pickleball court. Additional niceties that are being looked into range from a fitness center to a physical therapy provider.
“Today, our excitement reaches a new height as we celebrate the groundbreaking of Westside Woods Sports Complex," city officials said during Thursday's event. "It puts us on the map for world-class soccer year round, esports tournaments and events."
City officials touted the site's location along major transit routes and its proximity to metro area entertainment venues and business centers.
"This $10 million landmark opens the door for investment and development along the C.H. James Parkway corridor," they continued. "The Westside Woods Sports Complex is truly a win-win partnership, progressing and preserving our community character."
David and Laurie van Gelder, who have lived in Powder Springs for 17 years, are two of the leaders behind the project. Laurie is the owner and CEO of Westside Woods and David is the chief financial officer.
“Our kids are 15 and 11, so they’re pretty rooted in the community. Our youngest plays soccer, and we just found that this would be a great need for a lot of people in the community,” Laurie van Gelder said. “There’s always need for any kind of sports — youth sports, adult sports, anything — and we know that looking around with the weather turning, (we’re) always trying to find places to play.”
Those involved in soccer and other sports are also looking for other amenities, David van Gelder said, adding that visitors will be able to enjoy a walking trail while their children play on the sports site, but also “grab a quick bite to eat, or grab a beer, if that’s what you’re interested in.”
Soccer will play a big part in Westside Woods Complex; other sports, events, and outside groups will also be welcomed.
“We just want to be part of the community. I think part of David and Laurie’s reason for doing this is they want to help contribute to a healthy community — it’s not just about soccer or sports,” city representatives said. “We want to have an experience where the whole family can be involved — little kids, grandma and grandpa, mom and dad, and be happy in that space.”
For more information on Westside Woods, visit westsidewoodsllc.com.
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