WATERLOO, IOWA – Waterloo Development Corporation broke ground this week on its new Cedar Valley CourtWorks facility, at the same time announcing its “Raise Our Game” campaign.
Attendees to the event saw renderings of the new facility on display, and heard from representatives of the Waterloo Development Corporation and Grow Cedar Valley, along with the Waterloo Mayor.
What is CourtWorks? Situated conveniently to the riverfront and downtown core, the 100,000 sq.-ft. youth athletics building is designed to house numerous volleyball and basketball courts with additional competition spaces, modern amenities, and meeting rooms. “CourtWorks is a way for us to drive economic development and build the future of Waterloo while providing for our community members and the generations to come.” said Waterloo Mayor Quentin Hart.
The new facility will take shape on the TechWorks campus near the John Deere Museum and Courtyard Marriott Hotel, with sports facility construction set to be complete in early 2027. Once up and running, it is expected to have a $10-15 million annual impact in the first five years.
“We are excited to be eliminating the barriers our young athletes and their families face when looking for high-level play. By reducing the expense and time commitment of traveling teams, we are proudly investing in the future of our community,” said Katy Susong, Grow Cedar Valley president and CEO.
About the fundraising campaign: The “Raise Our Game” campaign was also announced to help raise funding and bring the facility to fruition. The campaign encourages donors and supporters to become part of making their community a premier place for youth athletics.
“This campaign really highlights the impact that a facility like CourtWorks will have on Waterloo’s value within the Midwest, but it also highlights the project as a way for the community to grow stronger together,” said Jim Miller, Waterloo Development Corporation.
The goal is to raise $37 million, of which $30.5 million has already been secured. Support for CourtWorks comes from the Waterloo Development Corporation, Grow Cedar Valley and the Cedar Valley Sports Commission, along with donor gifts. For information on giving opportunities or to become a donor, contact Jim Miller at waterloocourtworks@gmail.com or 319-486-0688.