The city of Bridgeport, West Virginia, is getting a boost from the state government to construct multiple turf fields at The Bridge Sports Complex.
On January 7, West Virginia Governor Jim Justice delivered $1.8 million in matching funds to the city of Bridgeport to support the project. The fields will serve various turf-related sports including baseball, soccer and lacrosse.
“I’ve been to some pretty incredible sporting facilities, but I have to tell you — Bridge Sports Complex is right up there with the best of them,” Justice said. “The facility is already bringing hundreds and hundreds of visitors to the area, boosting our economy, and most importantly, supporting our young athletes. With these expansion plans in the works, we are positioning Bridgeport to do more and more goodness. Let’s keep it going.”
The Bridge Sports Complex, which opened in 2021, hosts more than 50 events annually. New fields would allow the complex to host more events.
“This grant will position The Bridge Complex to bring substantial sports tourism dollars to our region,” said Droo Callahan, general manager at The Bridge Sports Complex. “Our prime location and the increased activity the turf will allow, will create an accessible and vibrant competitive environment that is unmatched in the region.”
The Water Development Authority approved $900,000 in funds from the Economic Enhancement Grant Funds for the project and the Governor’s Office added an additional $900,000 through matching dollars. The expansion is expected to be completed by fall of this year.
“Bridgeport wants to thank Governor Justice for this generous contribution to our efforts to expand the economic impact of amateur and youth sports tourism that is growing exponentially in Bridgeport,” said Bridgeport Mayor Andrew Lang. “Our planned improvements are essential to meet the growing demand. These funds, provided by Governor Justice, will be transformational for our city.”