JONESBORO, Ark. — The First Community Bank Sportsplex is approaching its anticipated opening date in early 2027, with new features such as painted walls and billboards contributing to its final stages of construction.
The facility, located off Race Street across from the Trim Gym Health and Fitness Club, is designed to accommodate regional and national sporting events, with bookings already scheduled starting in April, according to Craig Rickert, executive director of the Jonesboro Advertising and Promotion Commission.
“The sports tourism economy is a big part of American business right now,” Rickert said. “People travel from all over with their kids, their families to take part in events and tournaments.”
Jonesboro has long been a regional hub for high school and college sports in Northeast Arkansas, and officials hope the new facility will attract even more visitors. Rickert expressed enthusiasm for its potential impact on the community, describing it as a state-of-the-art venue that will enhance the city’s appeal to both athletes and their families.
However, the sportsplex’s location has sparked debate among local residents. Wally Williams, a retired physician, voiced concerns about traffic on Race Street, worrying that the increased volume of visitors could strain infrastructure in the area.
“It’s a bad place to have it,” Williams said. “There’s plenty of other places that won’t totally destroy the traffic and things that are down here.”
Other residents see the benefits of the project as outweighing any drawbacks. Lauren Riley, a Jonesboro resident, said the facility’s focus on youth athletics and its potential to drive economic growth make it a welcome addition to the city.
“I’m just real excited that the kids will have a place to compete,” Riley said. “I think that’s going to be a big benefit.”
The First Community Bank Sportsplex is set to host various tournaments and events aimed at boosting sports tourism, a growing segment of the economy. Officials remain confident that its completion will solidify Jonesboro’s reputation as a destination for competitive athletics, while delivering new revenue streams to the city.
Rickert emphasized how the facility would not only provide a venue for youth sports but also showcase the city’s hospitality and amenities to visitors. "We’re going to see a ton of people coming to town to compete and take in our great hospitality in this fantastic facility we have here,” he added.