 - The City of Riverton has released the results of a comprehensive feasibility study evaluating the development of a new indoor multi-sport and ice activity facility in town. ){kind=link}
(Riverton, WY) – The City of Riverton has released the results of a comprehensive feasibility study evaluating the development of a new indoor multi-sport and ice activity facility in town.
City officials said the study outlines “notable public interest, potential economic benefits, and the financial implications of building and operating such a facility.”
‘Broad support’
More than 1,140 residents participated in the public survey associated with the study, the city said in a press release last week, and representatives from 20 local organizations – including sports associations, school and recreation providers, and civic groups – contributed through stakeholder meetings.
“Survey results revealed broad support for several key amenities, including a multi-purpose gymnasium, an indoor walk/jog track, and space for teens,” the press release states. “Residents expressed a clear desire for safe, accessible indoor recreation opportunities that support wellness, family activity, and year-round use – particularly during Wyoming’s long winters.”
In addition to assessing demand, the study evaluated the potential economic benefits of hosting tournaments and events, estimating that, even under conservative assumptions, the facility could generate more than $1 million annually in economic impact, driven by spending from participants, spectators, and visitors, the press release states.
However, the study also found that the facility is not expected to be financially self-sustaining – even with user fees, rental income, and programming revenue offsetting a portion of costs.
“Estimated construction costs range from $12 million to over $15 million for either the indoor activity or ice facility – (and) a combined facility housing both components could cost between $25 million and $30 million, depending on building type and scope,” the city said. “(And) for a combined activity center and ice rink, annual operating expenses are projected at approximately $1.36 million, with anticipated revenues falling just under $400,000 – leaving a funding gap of around $960,000 per year.
“The projected cost recovery rate is 29.3 percent, meaning more than 70 percent of the facility’s operating costs would require support from external sources such as the city’s general fund, grants, partnerships, or new revenue mechanisms.”
July 15 presentation
The feasibility study – which was partially funded through a grant from the USDA Rural Development program – was completed by Ballard*King & Associates with support from JLG Architects.
The city said representatives from Ballard*King will present the study’s findings to the Riverton City Council during a regular meeting July 15, providing an opportunity for elected officials and residents to hear directly from the consulting team and ask questions about the study’s conclusions and recommendations.
“This study gives us a solid foundation to consider the many possibilities and variables associated with an indoor activity and sport facility,” Riverton Mayor Tim Hancock said. “We look forward to learning more during the upcoming presentation and engaging the community as we work to see what is possible.”
Riverton City Administrator Kyle Butterfield emphasized the importance of transparency and planning as the city council moves forward.
“The study confirms a strong desire for more indoor recreation options, but it also makes clear that a long-term funding plan is essential,” Butterfield said. “The July 15th presentation will help frame this discussion as our elected officials weigh possibilities.”
Following the presentation, the council will consider the study’s findings and determine appropriate next steps for further planning, funding strategies, and continued public engagement, city officials said, encouraging residents to attend the July 15 meeting or watch the livestream and stay involved as the process moves forward.
The full feasibility study is available on the city’s website.
For more information, call the City of Riverton at (307) 856-2227.