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Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – A construction update was given by Project Manager Chris Stritzel at the Scheels Sports Park site Wednesday afternoon. After many months of laying the groundwork, they have now completed the foundation for the facility’s record-breaking dome.
At 275 ft. by 715 ft., the dome will be the largest air-supported structure in the United States and the largest air-supported sports dome in the world. The dome will fit two full-sized softball fields, six full-sized basketball courts, and a hitting center. The basketball courts can also be converted into 12 volleyball courts.
The dome will take two days and thirty people to inflate. Blower units will keep the dome inflated, and generators are in place should the electricity go out. If everything failed and it deflated, it would take over an hour to do so, which would indicate plenty of time to evacuate. It is estimated that the dome will be inflated by the end of June.
Also currently under construction are the concessions building and the entrance for the dome. The entrance will house restrooms, administrative offices, among a few other things. There are also eight full-size soccer fields that convert into two youth diamonds or one high school field made entirely of synthetic turf.
The dome and a few outdoor fields are set to be completed by this fall, the full facility is scheduled to open in spring of 2026.
An agreement is in place with District 186 for students to use the facilities. The dome will also have a national draw for tournaments.