News
Tree Planting Ceremony at Old Historic Pulaski County Courthouse
On Thursday, May 7, 2026, at 2 p.m., a brief tree planting ceremony will be held on the Old Historic Pulaski County Courthouse lawn. Two dogwood trees, in recognition of our Nation’s 250th commemoration, will be presented to the Pulaski County Board of Supervisors by the Count Pulaski Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Pulaski County Courthouses Exhibits Committee. The public is invited to attend this ceremony as we celebrate our nation’s birthday and remember the sacrifices made by our founding fathers.
Pulaski County To Open Community Collaboration Center
The Pulaski County Board of Supervisors to open a hub to house the Pulaski County Office of Prevention and Recovery and collocate programs and complimenting agencies focused on building citizen wellness, encouraging community engagement, and supporting an array of prevention and recovery efforts.
The Office of Prevention and Recovery, created in the Fall of 2024, aims to empower citizens to thrive through a whole-family approach that supports connections to meaningful opportunities around a community of care. The office is centered heavily on prevention, building resilience, and overall well-being with programing that targets multiple generations with a multidisciplinary approach. The Community Collaboration Center (CCC), opening in Summer of 2026, will serve as a shared space for the county and partners to deliver and facilitate programming, engagement, and enrichment for all ages of citizens. With a focus on meeting the needs of the entire family unit and accessibility for clients, partners within the CCC will reinvent how families access support and receive services.
Katie Thompson, Director of the Office of Prevention and Recovery shared “The Community Collaboration Center is a dream realized! When I began my work with the County, I wanted to see us improve service accessibility for our families and I wanted to see Pulaski County create a model for addressing the needs of the whole family unit. The CCC gives us the space, the breadth of services, and the provider capacity to support Pulaski County families to thrive here at home!”
The CCC is an innovative model that brings together public and private agencies, non-profits, and the faith-based community to support individuals and their families in receiving services and life skills that allow every generation to be successful, engaged, and contributory. The Center will host shared office and flex spaces and collaboratively partner with organizations to bring in a variety of programs. Services will span mental health treatment, parenting, youth mentoring, classes for enrichment (like art, cooking and nutrition), financial planning, and more. Services will be coordinated to support youth and adults being able to participate simultaneously and the Center will bridge common barriers to services like childcare, transportation, and scheduling outside of work and school hours.
Initial partnership and programs were prioritized through data analysis from partner agencies. Key needs identified include - youth access to mental health groups, life-skills and work skills development for substance and justice involved citizens, mental health services for Veterans, and post-treatment recovery services. Along with all these targeted services, the CCC will also provide coordinated case management that helps individuals navigate care systems and access programs that move them towards self-sufficiency and community engagement.
“The Community Collaboration Center further demonstrates that the Board of Supervisors is taking a holistic approach to a healthy and strong community, and they are not just focused on economic development, but looking to strengthen the underpinning of our community by supporting our at-risk and in-need citizens as well”, stated Jonathan Sweet, County Administrator. “This new center has the unique ability to change the trajectory of lives and the legacy of generations, and our creativity and resourcefulness, coupled with our care and compassion for our citizens, will indeed prove to be a major source of hope, healing and opportunity.”
The Office of Prevention and Recovery brings together community partners to improve citizen access to mental health, prevention and recovery services, and multi-generational programs to create a thriving citizenry. The Community Collaboration Center will serve as a force-multiplier for those citizens and partners to build our economy and create a healthy future for all of Pulaski County.
Pulaski County Shares Construction Progress On Sportsplex
The Pulaski County Board of Supervisors is excited to provide an official update on the highly anticipated Pulaski County Sportsplex project - a transformational investment in indoor recreation, sports tourism, entertainment and community wellness. The project is progressing on schedule and is expected to open in the Fall of 2026.
The 165,000 – square-foot indoor facility is quickly taking shape and remains on target for a substantial completion in September, and a subsequent grand opening to be announced with a target of October of 2026. Once complete, the Pulaski County Sportsplex will serve as a robust community recreation and wellness center, as well as a premier destination venue for sports tourism and entertainment activities and events.
“We have been diligently working to ensure this project remains on time, on scope and on budget, and we are proud to report that all three of these objectives are being met at this time”, stated Jonathan D. Sweet, County Administrator. “It has taken a team approach to creatively and resourcefully work through some of the challenges faced when converting a manufacturing facility of this size into such a dynamic and versatile space, and we are very pleased with the teamwork and progress being made.”
As construction continues, planning is actively underway for facility operations, pricing and programming. The Sportsplex will bring a wide range of employment opportunities, including:
- Operational roles
- Program, Membership and Event Coordinators
- Guest Services and Front Desk staff
- Environmental Services staff
- Part-time and seasonal event staff
(Job postings are expected to begin approximately three (3) months prior to the facility opening.)
The County is also developing affordable, flexible and inclusive membership options to meet the needs of our residents and visitors. Planned offerings may include:
- Resident and Non-Resident memberships
- Individual and Family Plans
- Youth and Senior options
- Daily Admission and drop-in access
It is important to the Board of Supervisors that the Sportsplex’s membership models are intentionally designed to ensure affordability for residents while supporting the long-term sustainability of the facility. Additional premium options and program-based add-ons may be available for those seeking enhanced experiences. More detailed pricing, packages, and early membership opportunities will be released in the coming months, well ahead of the facility’s opening.
Additional public communications will be shared in the months leading up to project completion. Pulaski County’s Parks & Recreation Department and the Sports & Entertainment Department will be providing further details on membership rates, program offerings, job opportunities and scheduled sports and entertainment events.
“The Board of Supervisors are very appreciative of the roles and work the Sports Tourism & Entertainment Authority (STEA) and the Economic Development Authority (EDA) are putting into this important project and the efforts of the County Administration team is providing to help guide this important community project on to completion”, stated Laura Walters, Chair, Board of Supervisors. “The Sportsplex is expected to have a lasting impact on our community by expanding recreational opportunities for all ages, attracting tournaments and visitors to the area, supporting our local businesses, and creating a central hub for more community engagement.”
Pulaski County Welcomes Brandon Wolford As Health & Wellness Supervisor
Pulaski County Parks & Recreation is proud to announce the hiring of Brandon Wolford as its new Health & Wellness Supervisor, a key position that will play a vital role in strengthening current fitness offerings and shaping expanded health and wellness opportunities ahead of the opening of the Pulaski County Sportsplex in 2026.
Brandon brings nearly two decades of dedicated service in parks and recreation, most recently as Fitness Coordinator for the Town of Wytheville, where he spent 18 years building innovative programs, supervising staff, managing operations, and championing community-wide wellness initiatives. His experience, combined with his passion for helping people reach their full potential, makes him an exceptional addition to the Pulaski County team.
A 2011 graduate of Radford University, Brandon holds a Bachelor of Science in Exercise, Sport, and Health Education with a concentration in Corporate and Commercial Fitness. He is a National Strength and Conditioning Association–Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, along with holding numerous additional certifications that reflect his commitment to professional excellence and lifelong learning.
Throughout his career, Brandon has set high personal and professional standards, overseeing operational budgets, leading staff teams, and creating efficient, positive work environments. He is especially known for developing innovative, inclusive programs—such as the Fit for Life Wellness Programs—that strategically promoted health, fitness, and long-term wellness for residents of all ages. His work has earned regional and statewide recognition and has served as a model for collaborative, community-focused recreation programming.
Brandon’s leadership philosophy centers on teamwork, positivity, and opportunity. He believes strongly in creating welcoming environments where staff and participants alike are empowered to perform at their greatest potential. His collaborative approach and enthusiasm for wellness align seamlessly with Pulaski County’s vision for growth, accessibility, and innovation in parks and recreation services.
In his new role, Brandon will oversee and enhance Pulaski County’s existing health and wellness programs while serving as a strategic leader in planning and implementing expanded fitness and wellness opportunities connected to the upcoming Pulaski County Sportsplex. His expertise will help ensure the Sportsplex becomes a hub for inclusive, forward-thinking health and wellness programming for the entire community.
“Brandon’s passion for community wellness, proven leadership, and innovative mindset make him an outstanding fit for Pulaski County,” says Shay Dunnigan, Director of Parks and Recreation. “We are thrilled to welcome him and look forward to the positive impact he will have now and, in the years, ahead.”
Pulaski County Parks & Recreation proudly welcomes Brandon Wolford and looks forward to an exciting new chapter in health, wellness, and active living for residents across the county.
Pulaski County Hires Its First-Ever Fire Marshal
Pulaski County has hired its first-ever Fire Marshal, marking a significant step forward in strengthening fire prevention, life safety, and community risk reduction efforts countywide.
Zack Dunnigan has been selected to fill the newly established Fire Marshal position, which falls under the Pulaski County Fire and Rescue Department. The creation of this new role reflects the Board of Supervisor’s continued commitment to proactive fire prevention, code compliance, and public safety.
As Fire Marshal, Dunnigan will be responsible for conducting fire and life safety inspections of new and existing commercial establishments and multi-family residences; ensuring compliance with county and state fire codes; reviewing and inspecting fire detection and suppression systems; and providing final fire-related approvals for construction projects. The position also includes investigating fire safety complaints and conducting investigations involving fires and hazardous materials.
“This position allows Pulaski County to take a more proactive approach to fire prevention and life safety,” said Brandon Hamblin, Pulaski County Chief of Fire & Rescue. “Having a dedicated Fire Marshal enhances our ability to reduce risks before emergencies occur and ensures our growing community meets the highest safety standards.”
Dunnigan brings more than 10 years of progressive Fire and EMS experience to the role, most recently serving as a Fire Captain and EMT. His background includes leadership, incident command, fire suppression, public education, and emergency operations. He holds multiple professional certifications, including Certified Fire Investigator, Fire Inspector, and Virginia DHCD Fire Official/Fire Prevention Inspector.
“I’m honored to serve Pulaski County in this new role,” Dunnigan said. “Fire prevention and life safety are critical to protecting our residents, businesses, and visitors, and I look forward to working closely with our community and partner agencies to reduce risk and strengthen overall safety.”
“The establishment of this career position effectively builds out the second phase of our Pulaski County Fire and Rescue Department, delivering both greater capabilities in fire prevention, as well as providing additional capacity with fire and rescue response”, stated Jonathan D. Sweet, County Administrator. “This new position will serve an important role in the residential, commercial and industrial sectors of our community, and ultimately be another step closer to providing the proactive services and emergency response expected of a next-level rural community.”
Pulaski County Welcomes New Finance Director
Pulaski County has announced the hiring of Justin Martin as its new Finance Director, bringing extensive experience in local government finance, auditing and public administration to the role.
Martin joins Pulaski County by way of Carroll County, VA, where he has served as their Finance Director since 2021. In that position, he was responsible for overseeing the county’s financial operations, budgeting, accounting, and fiscal compliance. Prior to his tenure in Carroll County, Martin worked as an Audit Manager at Radford University, where he gained significant experience in financial oversight, internal controls and institutional accountability.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to serve Pulaski County and to contribute to the important work already underway”, Martin said. “I look forward to working collaboratively with county leadership, staff, elected officials and our partners to support the County’s goals and long-term financial stability.”
Martin holds a Master of Public Administration (MPA) from Liberty University, a Graduate Certificate in Local Government Management from Virginia Tech, and a Bachelor of Business Administration (BA) in Accounting from Radford University. He also holds the designation of Certified Public Accountant (CPA).
“Pulaski County Administration is excited to have Mr. Martin join our team, and we are confident his experience, education and talents as a CPA and MPA will benefit the County and our operations on numerous levels”, stated Jonathan D. Sweet, County Administrator. “Justin has seen local government finance from every angle, from conducting preaudits and annual audits, to the development and implementation of county budgets and capital plans, his knowledgeable perspective is going ensure the County remains fiscally well managed.”
As Finance Director, Martin will oversee Pulaski County’s financial operations, including budget development, financial reporting, accounting functions and long-term fiscal planning. County officials expressed confidence that Martin’s strong background in public finance and local government management will support Pulaski County’s continued commitment to responsible stewardship of public resources.
Pulaski County Parks and Recreation Staff Earns Event Management Certification
Pulaski County Parks and Recreation staff member Jenna Kinder has earned the designation of Certified Festival and Event Associate (CFEA) after successfully completing a rigorous two-year Event Management School offered by the International Festivals & Events Association (IFEA) in partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA).
The nationally recognized program prepares professionals to effectively plan, manage, and deliver high-quality community festivals and special events. Hosted at the Oglebay National Training Center in West Virginia, the school combines in-depth instruction with applied, real-world project work led by experienced and internationally recognized event industry professionals.
Over the two-year program, Kinder completed coursework in event budgeting and financial management, sponsorship development, marketing and communications, volunteer coordination, legal and risk management, accessibility and inclusion, and project-based event planning. The advanced second-year curriculum focused on applied risk management, stakeholder-driven event design, and emerging trends impacting the events industry.
“Jenna’s dedication to this program speaks volumes about the pride she takes in her work and our community she serves,” said Shay Dunnigan, Director of Pulaski County Parks and Recreation. “When our staff invests in professional growth, it directly translates to better planning, stronger experiences, and safer events for our community. We’re proud to support development opportunities like this because they raise the standard for everything we do.”
Earning the Certified Festival and Event Associate designation reflects a significant professional accomplishment and enhances Pulaski County Parks and Recreation’s capacity to produce safe, enjoyable, and well-executed events that strengthen community connection and quality of life.
IHRA Announces The Leasing and Operations Of The Pulaski County Motorsports Park, Formerly The Motor Mile Speedway
The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) today announced it has entered into a lease agreement for the Pulaski County Motorsports Park, the landmark venue long known to racers and fans as the Motor Mile Speedway, marking a major step in IHRA’s mission to revive grassroots motorsports and reinvest in legendary community tracks.
“This track is part of the racing fabric of Virginia — and the kind of place where generations of families have made memories,” said Darryl Cuttell, Owner of IHRA. “Leasing Pulaski County Motorsports Park allows us to put racing back where it belongs: in the community, accessible to local teams, and exciting for fans.”
First opened in 1952 as a dirt oval, the facility evolved into one of the region’s most recognizable racing destinations. The oval was later paved and developed into a 0.416-mile asphalt track, and the complex expanded over time to include a drag racing venue, helping establish Pulaski County as a true motorsport’s hub.
Under IHRA’s lease, Pulaski County Motorsports Park will once again become a year-round heartbeat for competitive racing, special events, and community engagement — with immediate focus on restoring a consistent schedule that brings fans back through the gates and supports the local economy.
Home Base for the New IHRA Stock Car Series
Pulaski County Motorsports Park will serve as a cornerstone venue for the newly launched IHRA Stock Car Series, a national-level program designed to bring stock car racing back to its roots through costcontrolled competition and a racer-first approach.
The 2026 IHRA Stock Car Series will open at Pulaski County Motorsports Park on March 21, with a second stop at the track on July 25.
“Pulaski County is excited to welcome IHRA in such a big way to our community, and to partner with them at the Pulaski County Motorsports Park to bring world-class drag and oval track racing back to the New River Valley”, stated Jonathan Sweet, County Administrator. “We feel that IHRA is a premier professional racing organization, and their focus on an array of motorsports applications closely aligns with the County’s overall sports and entertainment vision, as well as shared emphasis on communitycentric events.”
A Track with National Visibility — Ready for a New Era
Pulaski County Motorsports Park has hosted a wide range of touring series and major events over the decades, including nationally recognized appearances as recently as 2023. With renewed operations and a refreshed event strategy, IHRA intends to bring an expanded calendar that includes:
- IHRA Stock Car Series weekends and regional racing programs
- Additional motorsports disciplines and touring events
- Family-friendly festivals, community nights, and sponsor-driven experiences designed to reintroduce the facility to new audiences
Built With the Community, For the Community
IHRA emphasized that this lease is not simply about events on a calendar — it’s about rebuilding momentum around a facility that has long been a point of pride for Pulaski County and the New River Valley. The organization will work alongside local partners to support community involvement, create opportunities for local businesses, and ensure the fan experience matches the significance of the venue.
“The motorsports park has been an important part of this community for decades, and I have felt that we had an obligation to do whatever we could to return it to its former glory since I arrived here,” said Tim Miller, Director of Sports & Entertainment for Pulaski County. “This partnership with the IHRA and the vision that Darryl Cuttell and his team have for the future of racing and this venue puts us in the best possible position to succeed.”
About Pulaski County Motorsports Park
The Pulaski County Motorsports Park is a 152-acre motorsports complex featuring a 0.416-mile paved oval racetrack and a 1/8-mile paved drag strip. Located in Pulaski County, Virginia, the facility has gone by several names in the past including Pulaski County Speedway, New River Valley Speedway, and Motor Mile Speedway. It was purchased by the Shelor Team in 2004 and later gifted to Pulaski County in April 2024.
About the International Hot Rod Association (IHRA)
The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) is a global motorsports organization sanctioning and promoting competition across multiple racing disciplines. With a focus on professional standards, safety, and consistent event execution, IHRA provides structured competition platforms for racers, teams, tracks, and fans worldwide. Through national series, facility partnerships, and strategic growth initiatives, IHRA continues to expand its footprint while supporting the long-term success of motorsports communities.
Public Meeting Notice
There will be a joint meeting of the Pulaski County Economic Development Authority Board of Directors & Pulaski County Sports Tourism Entertainment Authority Board of Directors on Monday, December 8, 2025, at 10 a.m. in the Executive Training Room of the County Administration Building, 143 Third Street N.W., in the town of Pulaski, Virginia. (Contact: Megan Bird, Clerk, Pulaski County Economic Development Authority & Pulaski County Sports Tourism and Entertainment Authority, 143 Third Street N.W., Suite 1, Pulaski, VA, 24301, 540-980-7705, mwbird@pulaskicounty.org).
Pulaski County Property Reassessment Information
Real estate reassessments occur on a six-year cycle, with the last reassessment taking place from 2019 to 2020. Property reassessments are currently underway through the end of 2026. New values are scheduled to take effect January 1, 2027.
Pulaski County has contracted with Vision Government Solutions for the reassessment project. Representatives from Vision have started making reassessment visits to properties throughout the county. Below is some important information regarding the reassessment process.
Property owners can expect an in-person visit from Vision’s team to help ensure the most accurate data is collected. If the team is unable to complete the visit, some property details may need to be estimated, which could lead to an inaccurate valuation. For this reason, we strongly encourage full participation to ensure the information gathered is as precise as possible.
Vision plans to use doorhangers with their contact information if there are questions and will mail correspondences to owners concerning value changes with a deadline to appeal inaccuracies.
Notices of new property values will be mailed to owners in late 2026.
Property owners will have an initial opportunity to appeal their reassessment with Vision around December 2026.
A second appeal opportunity will be available through the Board of Equalization in early 2027; exact dates will be announced later.
County Administration and the Commissioner of the Revenue’s Office serve as Vision’s local points of contact regarding the county landscape and act as overseers of the project’s progress. However, if you have questions about your reassessment, please contact Vision directly during this phase, as local offices will not have access to the assessment data until the project is complete.
Pulaski County 2027 Reassessment Information
Construction Underway at Pulaski County Sportsplex
Renovations are underway at what will become one of the largest and most versatile indoor sports and event complexes in Virginia and the future hub for recreation, athletics, and entertainment in Pulaski County.
"This project represents a transformational investment by the Board of Supervisors in the health, recreation, and economic future of our county," said Jonathan Sweet, Pulaski County administrator. "We are excited to see construction beginning and look forward to what this facility will mean for Pulaski County families, athletes, businesses, and the visitors it will bring from around the country."
Built to meet the needs of both Pulaski County citizens and visitors, the Sportsplex will house youth sports, adult leagues, competitive tournaments, and a range of community and professional events throughout the year.
Located at 3994 Pepperell Way, the new 165,000-square-foot Sportsplex will offer high-quality multisport indoor courts, indoor turf fields, cardio and strength rooms, a golf institute, a 6,300-square-foot indoor playground, a full-service restaurant with catering, a one-fifth mile walking track, and much more.
"This is more than just a building," said Shay Dunnigan, director of Pulaski County Parks and Recreation. "It's a hub for connection, competition, and community. We are committed to creating a space that serves all ages and interests year-round."
The Sportsplex will be managed by both Parks and Recreation and Sports and Entertainment with Parks and Recreation managing all community wellness initiatives at the facility, including recreational sports and programming, and Sports and Entertainment overseeing large-scale athletic tournaments and revenue-generating events to help cover the cost of operating the facility. Construction is expected to conclude in late summer or early fall 2026, with the building opening to the public shortly afterward.
"The dual-purpose approach that the county is taking with this building is a win-win for everyone", said Tim Miller, executive director of Pulaski County Sports and Entertainment. "The local community gets a world-class facility that might otherwise not be possible, and the region gets a state-of-the-art facility that can host major tournaments and events, while also contributing to the local economy."
Pulaski County procured ZMM Architects and Engineers to serve as the project’s architectural and engineering firm. Over the past eight months, ZMM worked closely with county leaders to develop the renovation project and bring the vision of the Sportsplex to life through thoughtful design, planning, and collaboration.
The lowest of nine competitive bids came in under $13.5 million. The county let the contract with R.L. Price, and subsequently signed a value-engineered change-order lowering the cost by $1.3 million for an adjusted construction renovation cost of $12.2 million. The county sold $10.75 million in bonds on the open market. Additionally, the Board of Supervisors planned this project for numerous years and successfully saved and assigned $2.289 million for a total of $13.039 million in funds available for this project and purpose.
For questions about local Sportsplex initiatives and other general inquiries, please contact Pulaski County Parks and Recreation by calling (540) 994-2587 or emailing sdunnigan@pulaskicounty.org.
For questions about nonlocal Sportsplex initiatives, contact the Pulaski County Sports and Entertainment Authority by calling (540) 994-2526 or emailing tmiller@pulaskicounty.org.
Pulaski County Parks & Recreation Celebrates Rapid Growth of Youth Volleyball and Strategic Partnership with Pulaski County Public Schools
Pulaski County Parks and Recreation is proud to announce the continued growth and success of its youth volleyball program, a key part of the county’s long-term strategy to support athlete development and strengthen the pipeline to high school sports. Since launching recreation youth volleyball in 2021, the department has seen a remarkable 165% increase in registrations, with continued expansion and innovation planned as the county looks toward the opening of the Pulaski County Sportsplex in 2026.
In just four years, the program has grown from 101 annual youth registrations in 2021 to 268 in 2024, as Pulaski County Parks and Recreation worked intentionally to expand access and create year-round opportunities for athletes to play and develop.
"We recognize the critical role we play in the early stages of athlete development,” said Jenna Kinder, Assistant Director of Pulaski County Parks and Recreation. "Our department is not only introducing youth to the sport of volleyball, but we’re actively building pathways for skill development, competitive growth, and long-term participation on Pulaski County’s VHSL teams."
The department's most recent spring league in 2024 saw a record-setting 121 participants, a direct result of strategic planning to offer multiple seasonal touchpoints for youth engagement.
"Adding a spring season allowed us to double the number of playing opportunities each year, giving kids more time on the court to improve their fundamentals and love for the game,” said CJ Burgis, Sports Coordinator for Pulaski County Parks and Recreation. "It’s a simple change with a big impact—it opens the door for consistent growth and deeper athlete development.”
The department's newest collaboration with Pulaski County High School also led to the first Youth Summer Volleyball Camp, where 28 young athletes trained under the guidance of PCHS coaches and players during an intensive two-day experience. "This partnership is more than just about growing numbers—it’s about building a culture of excellence from the ground up,” said Duane Minnick, Junior Varsity Head Coach of Pulaski County High School Volleyball. "When we invest in athletes early, we create momentum and confidence that carries through middle and high school competition.”
The growth strategy doesn't stop here. With the anticipated opening of the Pulaski County Sportsplex in 2026, the county will add eight indoor volleyball courts, dramatically increasing capacity for off-season training, tournaments, and year-round access for local athletes.
"The Sportsplex will be a game-changer,” said Shay Dunnigan, Director at Pulaski County Parks and Recreation. “Not only will it provide more opportunities for our younger athletes to hone their skills throughout the year, but it will also elevate the overall performance of our high school teams. We’re grateful for the commitment the Pulaski County Board of Supervisors has made to this long-term vision.”
Pulaski County Parks and Recreation remains committed to providing high-quality recreational opportunities that inspire youth participation and support the broader goals of school athletic programs. As volleyball continues to surge in popularity across the region, Pulaski County is proud to be setting the standard for how local governments and school systems can collaborate to build something lasting—for both athletes and the community.
For more information on volleyball programs or the Pulaski County Sportsplex project, contact Pulaski County Parks and Recreation at (540) 994-2621.
Pulaski County Reveals the Future of Sports and Entertainment
The Pulaski County Board of Supervisors, in concert with the Sports Tourism & Entertainment Authority, has revealed the details on the future Pulaski County Sportsplex, and provided guided tours and tutorials on the plans to convert its 165,000 sq.ft. building into Virginia’s largest indoor versatile sports, entertainment and exposition center.
“This project has been a dream of our community for so very long and it was absolutely amazing to share with our citizens the details of how we plan to convert this discontinued manufacturing facility the County owns into one of the most meaningful assets a local government can provide its citizenry”, Laura Walters, Chair, Board of Supervisors. “As you can clearly see from the plans, the Sportsplex will offer something for everyone of all ages and the enterprising approach will not only make it affordable and sustainable for our citizens, but will fuel direct and indirect revenues by way of our hospitality and services industry sectors.”
The massive 165,000 sq.ft. Sportsplex will be home to 8 indoor basketball/volleyball/futsal courts, 2 indoor turf soccer fields, 4 permanent indoor pickleball courts, 22 additional indoor pickleball courts (total 26), a community weight room, cardio room, senior room, 1/5th of a mile indoor walking track, 110 meter indoor sprint track, 2 drop-down batting cages, an indoor Golf Institute, a full-service restaurant, programming and classroom space, member locker rooms, exposition space, entertainment space and so much more. Activities will include the complete Pulaski County Parks & Recreation indoor sports and club programming and will commercially be available for tournaments hosting basketball, volleyball, indoor soccer, futsal, pickleball, wrestling, cornhole, cheerleading, and more.
“The Board of Supervisors believe Pulaski County citizens deserve nice things and feel this is an important investment in the future of our community and our people”, stated Jonathan D. Sweet, Pulaski County Administrator. “This facility will be the new nexus of our community and will provide a safe and healthy place for ALL of our citizens to enjoy health, wellness, fellowship, recreation, competition, growth, development, nurture and fun. We are excited to embark on this long-awaited endeavor and look forward to what this will mean for our youth, adult and senior programming, our middle and high school sports teams, our citizen’s health and fitness, our community pride, our public image, entrepreneurialism, and investor confidence.”
The County ironically identified this very building more than 15 years ago as a potential location for a community recreation facility when it acquired ownership during a flux with a previous manufacturing operator. Pulaski County engaged in multiple community meetings and public input session for over two years from 2017 to its last meeting on February 15, 2019, that was held at the Pulaski County High School. The COVID-19 global pandemic temporarily delayed this initiative for more than 3 ½ years, but timing was again on the county’s side when the county-owned facility experienced another flux with last manufacturing operator and the change in use could once again be revaluated. The County’s Parks & Recreation Master Plan identified an ‘Indoor’ Wellness Center as the #1 desired recreational asset/amenity. More than 60% of all citizen surveyed respondents wished that the County would develop an indoor wellness facility. Pulaski County citizens have had to travel outside the county to enjoy indoor recreation and wellness facilities offerings. Nationwide, approximately 80% or more of communities offer a community recreation center including most all of the neighboring communities to Pulaski County.
“The acquirement of the Pulaski County Motorsports Park, Calfee Park, and the strategic improvements made at Randolph Park, along with the investment in a such a large and versatile indoor asset, will yield tremendous sports and entertainment opportunities for the County, but moreover it is going to mean so much more to the health, entertainment and economic opportunities for the citizens and businesses of Pulaski County”, stated Ashley Coake, Chair, Pulaski County Sports Tourism & Entertainment Authority. “You couple these world-class assets with professional and amateur sports and entertainment events at Claytor Lake, the New River Trail, and throughout our various public and private sports and entertainment venues, and we have effectively built an entire new industry here to flourish that marks a new era for Pulaski County.”
The Pulaski County Economic Development Authority is pursuing the issuance of Appropriation Revenue Bonds as a stand-alone public bond sale. The competitive bid process will sell the tax-exempt bonds on the open market using the County’s bond rating. The expected project cost to renovate and ready the facility for its intended uses will be approximately $10.5+/- million, and will ultimately be equal to the amount of the bond proceeds. The County intends to service the debt for the renovations by utilizing its new cigarette tax revenue stream that is generated from individual cigarettes sold within the county. The new cigarette tax was authorized by the legislature and voted on to enact by the citizens of Pulaski County by way of a county-wide referendum. In essence, this community facility is being primarily funded through unrestricted revenues generated from the sale of cigarettes. The proceeds of these products are ironically being invested into indoor wellness facilities for the benefit and overall health of our citizens.
Pulaski County’s evolving sports tourism and entertainment mission is to optimize the County’s sports, entertainment, and recreational assets for the benefit of our citizens and our business community, and to significantly enhance our local economy and quality of life by attracting and hosting a wide range of sports, entertainment and cultural events, while equally ensuring that the Board of Supervisors' priority to meet our citizens' health, wellness, and recreational needs is achieved. The County’s current sports tourism and entertainment assets include Historic Calfee Park, the Pulaski County Motorsports Park and Event Center, and components of Randolph Park.
And Coming Soon - The future Pulaski County Sportsplex, Virginia’s largest versatile indoor sports and entertainment complex and expo center.
Virginia is currently ranked 10th in the nation for sports sector visitor spending, despite lacking its own professional sports franchise. This spending is primarily driven by Virginia’s success in drawing youth, amateur, and collegiate events and tournaments to the Commonwealth. Sports tourism currently accounts for 8% of all visitor spending in Virginia, and it is growing faster than traditional tourism spending overall. The logistics of Virginia with its position on the Eastern seaboard and its proximity to major markets, as well as being within a day’s drive of nearly 2/3rds of the US population, ultimately positions the Pulaski County Sportsplex that is located near the intersection of I-81 and I-77, well to compete in this space and enjoy the market share of Southwestern Virginia, West Virginia, Tennessee, North Carolina, Kentucky and beyond.
Pulaski County Invites Community and Media to Attend the Reveal of the Future of Sports and Entertainment
The Pulaski County Board of Supervisors, in partnership with the Sports Tourism and Entertainment Authority, is excited to invite the community and media to attend and participate in the public reveal of Pulaski County’s future indoor versatile sports and entertainment facility – the Pulaski County Sportsplex, on Saturday, March 29th from 10:00 AM–12:00 PM on location in Dublin, Virginia.
“We are thrilled to finally be ready to invite the public into the future Sportsplex and share with them our bold plans for indoor sports and entertainment”, stated Jonathan D. Sweet, Pulaski County Administrator. “This project has been 15 years in the making, and we couldn’t be more excited to embark on this important community asset and economic development opportunity that will benefit of all our citizens and our hospitality and services industries.”
Attendees will be welcomed on a first-come, first-served basis to the facility, located at 3994 Pepperell Way, Dublin, VA, for the official public reveal and guided tour of the facility. Free refreshments will be provided, and vendors will be onsite. 107.1 FM will be broadcasting live from the event and giving away amazing prizes.
“The Board of Supervisors wanted to be strategic with this County-owned building. With the expertise of our County’s Leadership Team, the input of community stakeholders and the architectural and engineering services of ZMM, we will rapidly convert this 165,000-square-foot facility into something very special for our citizens. It will ultimately be a game-changer for the New River Valley and the Commonwealth”, stated Laura Walters, Chair of the Board of Supervisors. “This project will bring our long-standing indoor recreation goal to life and provide a central location for programming for citizens of all ages. It will also serve as a strong magnet for visitors encouraging them to play, stay, and spend here in Pulaski County.”
Virginia is currently ranked 10th in the nation for sports-sector visitor spending, despite lacking its own professional sports franchise. This spending is primarily driven by Virginia’s success in drawing youth, amateur, and collegiate events and tournaments to the Commonwealth. Sports tourism currently accounts for 8% of all visitor spending in Virginia, and it is growing faster than traditional tourism spending overall. The logistics of Virginia with its position on the Eastern seaboard and its proximity to major markets, as well as being within a day’s drive of nearly 2/3rds of the US population, ultimately positions the Pulaski County Sportsplex that is located near the intersection of I-81 and I-77, well to compete in this space and enjoy the market share of Southwestern Virginia, West Virginia, Tennessee, North Carolina, Kentucky and beyond.
“This new and unique recreational and entertainment facility is another important component to building out Pulaski County’s robust sports, recreation and entertainment assets, and it will serve the County well to advance our sports tourism and entertainment vision”, stated Ashley Coake, Chair of the Pulaski County Sports Tourism & Entertainment Authority. “We will be able to sustainably serve our community, our athletes, our youth, our seniors, and more, with the enterprising and commercial opportunities the size and versatility this facility provides, and it is our intent to make sports and entertainment visitation a significant revenue center for this facility and for the surrounding businesses that will support our operations.”
Pulaski County’s evolving sports tourism and entertainment mission is to optimize the County’s sports, entertainment, and recreational assets for the benefit of our citizens and our business community, and to significantly enhance our local economy and quality of life by attracting and hosting a wide range of sports, entertainment and cultural events, while equally ensuring that the Board of Supervisors' priority to meet our citizens' health, wellness, and recreational needs is achieved. The County’s current sports tourism and entertainment assets include Historic Calfee Park, the Pulaski County Motorsports Park and Event Center, and components of Randolph Park. And Coming Soon - The future Pulaski County Sportsplex, Virginia’s largest versatile indoor sports and entertainment complex and expo center.
Pulaski County Hires Director of Sports Tourism & Entertainment
The County of Pulaski, Virginia officially names Tim Miller as the first Director of the newly created Office of Sports Tourism & Entertainment. His new and specialized role will be to oversee the County’s sports tourism and entertainment assets and venues such as the Historic Calfee Park and the Pulaski County Motorsports Park and Event Center, as well as planning for, developing, and implementing strategies to enhance and promote sports tourism and entertainment throughout the community. He will be working with various stakeholders, including the Pulaski County Sports Tourism and Entertainment Authority, sports teams, event organizers, local businesses, other government agencies and County departments, to attract and manage sports and entertainment events that drive economic growth and improve the community's overall quality of life.
"Pulaski County is positioned and ready to aggressively pursue sports tourism with the help of Tim Miller and his professional experience, and to enjoy all of the benefits that come along with this flourishing and expanding industry sector”, stated Jonathan D. Sweet, County Administrator. “One of the main benefits of adding an enterprising approach to our sports and entertainment facilities and assets, is the ability to generate direct and indirect revenues to the County, to create new and enhanced opportunities for our business community, and to provide high quality facilities and events for our citizens to enjoy."
"From the very first visit I made to Pulaski County I sensed something special was happening here,” said Tim Miller, Director of Sports Tourism & Entertainment. “The commitment and support from the Board of Supervisors, the STEA, and County leadership, combined with the existing facilities, future plans, and natural assets make it an ideal place for sports tourism and entertainment programming to benefit both the local citizens and visitors. I have no doubt we will establish Pulaski County as a premier destination for sports and entertainment, and I am thrilled to be able to leverage my experience to help realize that potential."
Virginia is ranked 10th in the nation for sports sector visitor spending, despite lacking its own professional sports franchise. This spending is primarily driven by Virginia’s success in drawing youth, amateur, and collegiate events and tournaments to the Commonwealth. Sports tourism currently accounts for 8% of all visitor spending in Virginia, and it is growing faster than traditional tourism spending overall.
“What we are understanding is sports tourism is a very large industry, and the opportunities for Virginia, particularly Southwestern Virginia, continues to grow. We also see where sports tourism is rather recession resistant and in fact recovered more than a year ahead of the rest of Virginia’s economy post pandemic”, stated Laura Walters, Chair of the Board of Supervisors. “Pulaski County is adding sports tourism to our economic development portfolio, to further diversify and strengthen our economy and stimulate more visitation and consumer spending for our hospitality, tourism, retail and commercial sectors. This should be a win for our small business community and a big win our citizens who will benefit from the residual biproducts of increased personal consumption expenditures.”
Tim Miller is a graduate of Roanoke College and has received numerous awards, including the Richmond Times-Dispatch “Person of the Year” and the Greater Richmond Chamber of Commerce “Impact Award”. His extensive career experience includes Director of Sales and Marketing for ASM Global - Richmond, VA; Chief Operating Officer for RPM Events Group, LLC – Richmond, VA; Founder and Chief Operating Officer for Richmond 2015, Inc. - Richmond, VA; and, Vice President of Operations for the National Cycling League, Inc. – Miami, FL.
“We are excited to welcome Tim Miller and his family to Pulaski County and have him join the County team that is focused on making Pulaski County a premier destination for both outdoor and indoor sports tourism, recreation, and entertainment”, stated Ashley Coake, Chair of the Sports Tourism & Entertainment Authority (STEA). “Mr. Miller has effectively been appointed to also serve as the Executive Director of the newly formed STEA, and we are confident he will assist the Authority in successfully advancing the County’s sports tourism and entertainment mission.”
Pulaski County’s current sports tourism and entertainment mission is to optimize County’s sports tourism, entertainment, and recreational assets for the benefit of our business community and citizens, and to significantly enhance our local economy and quality of life by attracting and hosting a wide range of sports tourism, entertainment and cultural events, while equally ensuring the Board of Supervisors' priority to meet our citizens' health, wellness, and recreational needs is achieved. The County’s current sports tourism and entertainment assets include Historic Calfee Park, the Pulaski County Motorsports Park and Event Center, components of Randolph Park and the future Sportsplex, Virginia’s largest versatile indoor sportsplex and expo center (TBD).
Broadband in Unserved Areas
All Pulaski County residents who reside in unserved broadband areas are encouraged to pre-register to show interest in fiber-to-home broadband internet to help ensure universal coverage and to finalize the construction sequence by All Points Broadband. Head to the link below to pre-register.