McCracken County, City of Paducah, and McCracken County Sports Tourism Commission Celebrates Successful Groundbreaking Event
Paducah Sports Park Breaks Ground on New $65 Million Sports Complex
Over 100 community leaders, sports enthusiasts, and dignitaries celebrated the groundbreaking of Paducah Sports Park, a future state-of-the-art complex on the former Bluegrass Downs site and Stuart Nelson Park. This 130-acre park, operated by Sports Facilities Companies, promises to revolutionize the city's sports landscape.
The ceremony marked a significant milestone for the project, transforming the vision of a premier sports destination into a tangible reality. The event featured a welcome from Jim Dudley, Chairman of the McCracken County Sports Tourism Commission (MCSTC), and remarks from esteemed guests, including Paducah Mayor George Bray, McCracken County Judge/Executive Craig Clymer, and SFC Partner Evan Eleff.
The project’s estimated cost is $65 million, with funding largely coming from the transient room tax. Once complete, the park is projected to generate $155 million in direct economic impact in its first five years.
The ceremony unveiled the official name, Paducah Sports Park, and its brand identity, reflecting a dynamic and welcoming space for athletes. “We are thrilled to unveil Paducah Sports Park as the official name of this state-of-the-art facility,” said SFC VP of Venue Management, Todd Yancey, highlighting the park's connection to Paducah's heritage. “The brand has been built with the rich history and vibrant artistic spirit of this community in mind. It will be a place where not only athletic dreams are realized, but where the Paducah identity thrives.”
MCSTC Chairman Jim Dudley emphasized the impact on local athletes: “We’ve got a lot of local kids, a lot of local talent here,” Dudley said. “Paducah has a history of athletic accomplishments, and so that ability for them to stay home a little bit, play here, that’s going to be huge for this community.”
SFC Partner Evan Eleff sees Paducah Sports Park as a regional hub: “More than just a top-tier sports venue, Paducah Sports Park represents community pride and a commitment to athletic excellence. We are proud to be part of this historic milestone for Paducah and the region,” said Eleff highlighting the park's strategic location, noting its accessibility from major cities like Nashville, St. Louis, and Memphis.
Mayor George Bray emphasized the innovative nature of the facility, saying, “Paducah Sports Park is an innovative facility that honors the rich history of Bluegrass Downs and Stuart Nelson Park while ushering Paducah into a new era of sports excellence. Paducah Sports Park represents community pride and a commitment to athletic excellence, poised to become the region's sports hub."
The park will cater to various sports, from baseball and softball to soccer, football, and more. It will offer high-caliber tournaments, leagues, and community programs, along with superior guest services, event support, and food & beverage options.
With completion by Fall 2025, Paducah Sports Park will stand as a testament to the city's commitment to fostering community engagement and promoting a healthy lifestyle. This groundbreaking marks the beginning of an exciting future filled with sportsmanship, community spirit, and unparalleled recreational opportunities.
For more information about Paducah Sports Park and updates on the construction, please visit the park’s website below.
About Paducah Sports Park
Paducah Sports Park is a state-of-the-art outdoor sports venue located in Paducah, KY. Opening in Fall 2025, the park features numerous high-quality fields and diamonds paired with premium amenities for a world-class sporting experience. It is committed to fostering a strong community spirit and economic growth, offering unmatched value and an inclusive environment for tournaments and events. Paducah Sports Park is a member of the SF Network, the nation's largest and fastest-growing network of sports facilities, and is operated by the industry leader in sports, recreation, and event venue management, The Sports Facilities Companies.
