FOX CITIES, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Construction on the Fox Cities Champion Center is back on schedule after it was vandalized earlier this year.
“We are deep in construction right now, the building is almost enclosed. So we’re at a good turning point right here to begin on the interior and continue forward through this year to complete the building,” said Bob Buckingham, the Community Development Director for Grand Chute.
The construction site of this complex was vandalized in late January and since then two teenage boys have been charged with 15 felonies.
“The building was not significant and we’ve recovered from that,” said Buckingham.
Right now the total dollar amount of damage done to the facility is unknown, but the contractors working on the project are in the process of submitting insurance claims to get an estimated cost.
The sports facility is expected to open this fall.
On Friday it received an official name and logo. Community First Credit Union received the naming rights to the facility and its staff says they’re honored to be a part of the project.
“When we look at the opportunity that this presents not only to our local athletes and their fans but also as an attraction to get people into our community and see what we’re all about, It really is an amazing opportunity,” said Amanda Secor from Community First Credit Union.
The Community First Champion Center is expected to be one of the best sports facilities in the Midwest, with the total project costs hitting about $30 million.
“We are so excited about this announcement. This facility has the potential to generate over eight million dollars in economic impact for the Fox Cities in year one up to and over $12 million in five years,” explained Pam Seidl from the Fox Cities Convention & Visitors Bureau.
The hope is to have the facility open by October. It will include a year-round ice rink, field-house for basketball or volleyball courts and a seasonal arena.
