Vice Mayor Curtis Bethany III said he believes that facilities like this will create jobs and generate tax revenue for Newport News.
Newport, Virginia – What amenities do you want to see at the Sports and Events Center? That’s a question raised by the Newport News City leader to residents Thursday night.
The city held an open house meeting to discuss the possibility of building a centre and to get feedback from residents about what should be included in the facility if it is environmentally friendly for construction.
A community member at the conference told 13News that he was excited by the idea of a new sports facility.
“I really hope this happens, and I need this,” said resident Dione James.
The city’s vice-mayor, Curtis Bethany III, is at the forefront of the initiative. He believes the facilities could be a valuable addition to the community and urban economies.
“We’re talking about tax revenue generation. We’re talking about job creation. These impacts and professionals have sports facilities, or sports in general. I want to see those dollars on Newport news. I think so,” Bethany said.
Bethany said the city of Newport News has partnered with a sports facility company to explore the logistics of the project. The Open House explored potential locations, facility types and amenities, providing the best service to residents, local athletes and event attendees.
Thursday’s meeting was an opportunity for community members to exchange ideas with city officials about the proposed facility.
“Newport News says that this should be a hub for military and economic growth, but it could now become a tourist area.
Hawkins said sports facilities will maintain business-filled local hotels and restaurants. Howard Gwyn, a lawyer for Newport News for the Commonwealth, said the new facility would also help reduce crime.
“I fully support that. The more specific things to do for the kids, the more time they are occupied, the less time they get annoyed,” Gwyn said. I did.
