Midland Tennis Center in the News
Tennis center needs backing of residents
by Midland Reporter-Telegram
Published: Friday, June 27, 2008
The idea of building a tennis center in Midland has been openly on the table for the past three years and now is entering the push-for-funds phase that could make it a reality or end the dream altogether.
We support the idea of the private-public partnership being touted by proponents of the tennis center. The group has worked with the City Council in a joint partnership effort.
To date, approximately $4 million of the $10 million project has been raised or pledged, according to committee members. The $10 million dollars would cover construction costs for the proposed 35-court tennis center that would also have dressing and parking areas.
Once built, the facility would be turned over to the city for management and upkeep. Projections say those costs should range from $200,000 to $300,000 a year for startup costs, but should operate in the range of $55,000 a year after five years.
Sponsorships for courts, tournament fees and player fees will not cover all the costs associated with the center. But neither will the city be left with having to share the entire burden.
This project can't go forward without public support and that's as it should be. We think there is a need for the tennis center and urge potential donors to listen to the proposal and ask any questions they may have. It's only fair donations fuel the major portion of construction costs and that is an idea we support.
There is no question this is a quality of life issue for our community. There has been a long, rich tennis tradition in Midland, but many opportunities have been lost because of the lack of public courts. We think this project will fill a need and will definitely provide more opportunities for more people to play the sport.
We also think the project has potential to bring more tennis events into our city, and the economic impact of large tournaments is significant to our city. The potential economic impact is not an area that should be overlooked. That means more visitors to our city, more hotel rooms being filled, more meals sold at local restaurants and more potential shoppers for retailers.
We are glad the public has the opportunity to decide this issue. As they would say in tennis, "It's now your serve."
Copyright © MyWestTexas.com