$11.3 Million IMpact
“This facility is more than just a recreational asset—it’s an economic catalyst that will support local businesses, generate jobs, increase tax revenues, and improve the overall quality of life for Columbus residents,” said Dr. Fady Mansour, Director of the Butler Center for Research and Economic Development.
The construction and operation of a proposed 28-court pickleball facility at 1641 3rd Ave in downtown Columbus, Georgia, is projected to generate significant economic benefits for the community, according to a comprehensive economic impact study conducted by the Butler Center for Research and Economic Development at Columbus State University.
The facility, which will include 28 courts including 16 covered courts, 4 underneath 2nd ave and a central gathering hub, is expected to generate $11.3 million to the local economy, including a value-added impact (equivalent to GDP) of $5.4 million, $3 million in labor income, and supporting 63 jobs.
The study, which utilized input-output models to assess the facility’s impact, highlights the facility’s potential to enhance the local economy through construction, ongoing operations, and sport tourism-driven spending from pickleball tournaments.
Key Economic Impacts
Construction Impact
- Total Economic Output: $11.3 million
- Value Added (GDP): $5.4 million
- Jobs Supported: 63
- Labor Income: $3 million
- Total Tax Revenue Generated: $986,266 including $141,565 for local taxes, $169,572 for state taxes, and $675,129 for federal taxes
Annual Operations
- Total Economic Output: $775,000
- Value Added (GDP Contribution): $436,556
- Jobs: 8
- Labor Income: $266,273
- Tax Revenue Generated: $109,000 annually
Tourism From Tournaments
- The facility is expected to host two major tournaments annually, attracting approximately 400 players and visitors per event.
- Total Economic Output: $402,000 per year
- Value Added (GDP Contribution): $215,000 of the $402,000
- Jobs Supported: 3
- Labor Income: $109,000
- Tax Revenue Generated: Total $56,573 annually: Local $18,161, State $13,407, Federal $25,007
Combined Annual Impact
- When combining the facility’s operations and tourism-driven spending, the pickleball facility is projected to generate:
- Total Economic Output: $1.18 million annually
- Value Added (GDP Contribution): $651,735
- Jobs Supported: 12
- Labor Income: $374,915
- Tax Revenue Generated: Total $165,540 annually, Local $46,350, State $36,158, Federal $83,034
A Catalyst for Economic Growth and Community Engagement
Beyond its economic contributions, the pickleball facility will serve as a hub for community engagement, promoting active lifestyles and fostering local sports development. The facility’s design includes a central gathering hub, restrooms, concessions, green space, and parking, ensuring a welcoming environment for players and spectators alike.
About the Butler Center for Research and Economic Development
The Butler Center for Research and Economic Development is dedicated to providing data-driven insights and analysis to support economic growth and community development in Columbus, Georgia. For more information, email: butlercenter@columbusstate.edu or contact (706) 569-4650.
