KNOXVILLE, TN – New Sports Center Opens to Great Excitement at Lakeshore Park
The community of Knoxville has welcomed a significant addition to its recreational offerings with the grand opening of a new sports center and fieldhouse at Lakeshore Park. This launch took place recently and featured the unveiling of the Jim Haslam Sports Center and Haslam Fieldhouse.
A Community-Centric Development
The new center boasts impressive facilities, including four new baseball fields, a fieldhouse complete with restrooms, as well as outdoor and picnic seating areas, which are sure to enhance the experience for families and sports enthusiasts alike. This initiative stems from a vision to create a space that not only promotes physical activity but also fosters community spirit.
A Tribute to a Local Legacy
Bill Haslam, a member of the Haslam family, expressed his gratitude and pride in having the sports complex named after his father. “It’s a cool honor of my dad that the new sports complex is named after him. I’m a little biased, but I can’t think of a better person to honor, as somebody who has been involved in sports and particularly youth sports and recognizes the importance of that,” he stated.
Funding and Development Timeline
The impressive transformation of Lakeshore Park was made possible thanks to a generous $35 million donation from the Haslam family. The project officially broke ground in April 2022, marking a significant step in enhancing this cherished community space. The recent ribbon-cutting ceremony signifies the completion of the first phase of the park’s master plan.
Future Enhancements in the Works
The advancements to Lakeshore Park do not stop here. Plans for additional improvements include a unique 35-foot high sculptural mound, a new playground for children, three new pavilions, and the relocation of parts of the perimeter walking trail. Renovations are also slated for restrooms at the Hecht Pavilion and new parking facilities, all aimed at making Lakeshore Park a premier destination for recreation.
Community Appreciation
Knoxville Mayor Indya Kincannon took to social media to express her appreciation for the contributions and hard work that made this transformation possible. “Many thanks to the Haslam family members for their generosity and to the Lakeshore Park Conservancy for its hard work in making sure the park’s master plan comes together so perfectly. And thank you to all the families who play here and cherish this special place,” she wrote.
A Brief History of Lakeshore Park
Since its opening in 1995, Lakeshore Park has grown in both size and popularity. Originally established on 60 acres of leased land from the Lakeshore Mental Health Institute, it now spans an impressive 185 acres. The park’s facilities have undergone several improvements over the years, with notable additions like the Hank Rappe Playground in 2015 and the HGTV Overlook completed in 2020.
Conclusion
The new Jim Haslam Sports Center and Haslam Fieldhouse represent a significant milestone in Knoxville’s commitment to enhancing community spaces for recreation and gathering. With the backing of the Haslam family and the Lakeshore Park Conservancy, the future looks bright for Lakeshore Park, promising to be a hub of sports and community spirit for years to come.
