March 29, 2025

North Myrtle Beach Sports Complex Expansion Set to Transform Community

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News Summary

North Myrtle Beach is moving forward with a $36 million expansion of the Park & Sports Complex. The project aims to enhance recreational opportunities for families and youth, featuring new facilities for various sports and advanced aquatic amenities. Construction is already underway, and the project is expected to be completed by September 2025. Alongside this, new regulations concerning dangerous animals were also approved, highlighting the city’s commitment to safety and community welfare.

North Myrtle Beach Takes Major Steps Towards a $36 Million Sports Complex Expansion

In an exhilarating development for the residents and sports enthusiasts of North Myrtle Beach, the city has officially provided an update on the much-anticipated expansion of the Park & Sports Complex. As of now, current construction activities are in full swing, with notable work on building, irrigation, field development, and the installation of lighting for the soccer fields. This expansion initiative is more than just a tangible project; it embodies a vision for fostering community spirit and encouraging active lifestyles among the city’s youth and families.

Investment and Growth: A Bright Future Ahead

The expansion project carries a hefty price tag of $36 million and has garnered enthusiastic support from the North Myrtle Beach City Council. To facilitate this development, the city issued $27 million in general obligation bonds, a move solidified through a second reading approval on September 16. Mayor Marilyn Hatley noted the substantial economic benefits that the complex has already brought by hosting teams and their families, significantly boosting local businesses.

Set to be completed by September 2025, this ambitious project will introduce a variety of new facilities designed for baseball, soccer, lacrosse, softball, and other sports, in addition to advanced aquatic facilities and support structures. The aim is to create a vibrant hub of activity that not only promotes sports but also provides children and families with an array of recreational opportunities.

Financing and Future Planning

Any funding required beyond the initial bond will be sourced from existing city revenues, ensuring a sustainable financial approach to this large-scale project. The repayment of the bonds is planned over a nine-year period, with an annual debt servicing cost set at $3.5 million. Notably, the city’s current millage rate is projected to adequately cover this debt, reflecting prudent financial management and forward-thinking planning.

New Animal Ordinance Enhances Community Safety

animal ordinance. The revamped legislation aims to enhance police authority in addressing potentially dangerous animals, establishing a clear definition of what constitutes a “dangerous animal.” This includes pets that have shown a propensity to attack and cause harm.

Strengthening Regulations for Community Protection

Under the newly revised ordinance, animals bred for fighting are now explicitly included as dangerous, while provisions are made for agriculture and police animals responding to threats or trespassing. Owners of animals classified as dangerous will face strict new requirements; they are mandated to keep their pets securely confined and will be prohibited from buying, selling, or owning such animals raised with the intent to attack.

In cases where a dangerous animal does attack, owners could face serious consequences, including misdemeanors and fines of up to $500 or imprisonment for up to 30 days. The ordinance also makes clear that owners will be liable for various costs, including those related to the seizure, boarding of their pets, and expenses incurred by victims of attacks. Furthermore, registration with the local police department is required, along with proof of a $50,000 liability bond to cover potential injuries caused by their animals.

Community Impact and Future Considerations

These amendments have been designed to provide police with enhanced guidelines, aiming to create a safer environment for all residents of North Myrtle Beach. The concerted effort to improve sports facilities while tightening regulations around animal ownership illustrates the city’s commitment to fostering a healthy, thriving community that prioritizes safety and recreational opportunities.

With both the sports complex expansion and the animal ordinance revisions, North Myrtle Beach is setting a strong example of how cities can invest in their communities while simultaneously ensuring the safety and well-being of their residents.