Shelby County is investing $10 million to construct two indoor athletic facilities on the Shelby Academic Campus. The project, announced by Superintendent Josh Matthews, is expected to be completed by fall 2027 and will provide year‑round space for a variety of school and community activities.
Facility Details
The first building, a $6 million baseball/softball complex, will include practice fields, locker rooms and support spaces for the district’s baseball and softball programs. The second, a $4 million structure, will house half of a football field, allowing teams to practice regardless of weather conditions.
Multi‑Purpose Use
Matthews emphasized that the new spaces are designed for more than just athletics. “Our band, our advanced PE, our football, soccer, lacrosse… everyone’s going to be able to use it. We foresee this thing being used seven days a week,” he said. The facilities will also accommodate tournaments, youth AAU and travel‑team games, and 7‑on‑7 football events, positioning Shelby County as a regional destination for competitive sports.
Community Impact
Shelbyville Mayor Troy Ethington praised the project, noting the city’s steady growth over the past decade. “We’re going to see more and more individuals from all communities coming to support athletics and their schools. Plus they also get an opportunity to see what a great community we have,” Ethington said. He added that increased visitation could boost local businesses and showcase Shelbyville as a vibrant place to live and visit.
Economic and Educational Benefits
Beyond athletics, the indoor venues are expected to enhance the school’s curriculum. Advanced physical‑education classes can use the space for specialized training, while the band program will have a climate‑controlled rehearsal area. The year‑round availability reduces reliance on external facilities, saving the district money and keeping more activity within the community.
Looking Ahead
Construction is set to begin later this year, with both facilities scheduled to open in the fall of 2027. County officials anticipate that the new complexes will not only improve student experiences but also attract regional tournaments, bringing additional revenue and exposure to Shelby County.
Original reporting: WLKY Louisville — read the source article.
