The demolition of the former Macy’s building in downtown Charleston is set to begin this week, making way for the new Capital Sports Center. Kanawha County Commissioner Ben Salango announced that lawyers are finalizing the purchase of the Macy’s lot and if everything goes smoothly, demolition could start as early as Wednesday.
The project has received funding from various sources, including U.S. Senator Joe Manchin’s office which provided $2 million to kickstart the project. The City of Charleston and Kanawha County Commission each contributed $5 million, with the remaining funds coming from private partnerships and a potential bond issue.
The construction will involve demolishing three floors of the Charleston Town Center Mall’s Parking Garage B, with Rodney Loftis & Sons taking charge of the demolition. ZMM Architects have been working on the preliminary designs for the facility.
The $80 million indoor sports complex is expected to be an economic driver for the region, similar to the Shawnee Sports Complex in Dunbar. The goal of the center is not just to be profitable but also to provide a recreational space for the community and boost the local economy.
Announced in August 2022, the Capital Sports Center aligns with Charleston Mayor Amy Shuler Goodwin’s plan to revitalize downtown and attract tourism.
