Pinellas County is considering a major redevelopment of the former Toytown landfill site. The 235‑acre property would be transformed into a state‑of‑the‑art youth sports complex. The proposal, led by Sports Facilities Companies (SFC), outlines a vision for a dynamic, multi‑sport destination that could bring significant economic and recreational benefits to the region.
Located off Interstate 275 and Roosevelt Boulevard, the Toytown site has long been eyed for redevelopment. This latest proposal includes 20 baseball and softball fields, five multi‑purpose fields, 24 pickleball courts, and 12 sand volleyball courts. The project aims to serve local athletes while attracting regional and national tournaments, boosting sports tourism in Pinellas County.
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The huge youth sports complex could have a big economic impact
SFC, a Pinellas County–based company with extensive experience in sports tourism and venue management, is leading the charge. Its proposal emphasizes the economic benefits, estimating more than $350 million in direct impact within the first five years of operation.
“We see this as a transformative opportunity for the county,” SFC stated in their cover letter. “With Pinellas County’s award‑winning beaches, strong tourism infrastructure, and high demand for sports facilities, Toytown is the ideal location for a world‑class sports complex.”
SFC is also addressing the challenges of developing on a closed landfill site. To ensure success, it has partnered with experts in brownfield redevelopment, including Goldstein Environmental Law Firm, Goldstein Kite Environmental, and Geosyntec Consultants. These teams specialize in repurposing complex sites for new uses while meeting environmental and safety standards.
Family-friendly amenities and tons of multi-purpose fields
The proposed facility would feature:
- Multi-purpose fields: Five synthetic turf fields for soccer, lacrosse, field hockey, and football. One championship field would include elevated seating and scoreboards.
- Baseball and softball diamonds: Twelve artificial turf fields that can also be used for other sports. Eight smaller youth diamonds would accommodate younger athletes.
- Pickleball and sand volleyball courts: 24 dedicated pickleball courts and 12 sand volleyball courts to support both local play and tournaments.
- Entertainment and community spaces: Plans include areas for concerts, festivals, and community events. SFC has also proposed a Mammoth Fieldhouse attraction featuring interactive dining and entertainment.
- Walking and jogging trails: A cross-country course and walking path would surround the facility, offering additional recreational opportunities for residents.
- Family-friendly amenities: Playgrounds, green spaces, and lawn game areas would provide entertainment for visitors of all ages.
A cornerstone of youth sports and tourism in Pinellas County
SFC has emphasized its strong local ties and experience operating more than 60 sports venues nationwide. “Pinellas County has a unique opportunity to turn this underutilized land into something truly special,” the SFC team said. “We live here, we play here, and we are ready to make this vision a reality.”
As discussions continue, local officials and residents will weigh in on the proposal’s feasibility and impact. If approved, the Toytown sports complex could become a cornerstone for youth sports and tourism in the region, benefiting athletes, families, and the local economy.
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