Kanawha County officials have announced new funding for the long-delayed Capital Sports Center, along with scaled-back plans for the project. County and City of Charleston leaders joined U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito on Wednesday to reveal $7 million in congressionally directed spending, calling it a major step forward.
The project was paused in 2025 due to funding delays, rising construction costs, and pressure on the county’s budget. Originally unveiled in 2022, the plan aimed to transform the former Macy’s at the Charleston Town Center into a large sports complex featuring an aquatic center and rock-climbing wall.
Updated plans no longer include those features. Instead, the facility will focus on basketball, volleyball, and pickleball courts, along with a fitness center, family entertainment area, and food services. Construction is still expected to take several years.