The need for a nice sports complex in Amarillo is real.

And let's be honest, it's long overdue.

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Just a couple weeks ago, Kids, Inc. unveiled plans for a massive, all purpose sports complex facility to be built right here in Amarillo. If you missed it, you can read all about it here.

In the last voting period, there was a measure that would've increased taxes just a few bucks to help fund improvements needed at our current parks and baseball/softball fields. The measure failed, and the funding wasn't granted.

Kids, Inc. stepped up to build new facilities including baseball/softball fields, soccer fields and football fields. This project would NOT be funded for by taxpayers, but by private donations.

The first phase of the complex carries a hefty price tag, an estimated $30 million to complete.

Today, February 10th, 2022 is the day the complex started to become reality. A press conference held at the Kids, Inc. warehouse revealed 3 very large donations that will cover an estimated 20% of the costs to complete the first phase of the project.

Amarillo National Bank, the Caviness family (Caviness Beef Packers) and an anonymous donor each dropped a $2 million check down for the project today.

Statements were given from Amarillo National Bank and Caviness about how much Kids, Inc. has meant to Amarillo and the need for facilities like this in the city. It was also mentioned how much revenue this will drive into our city.

The revenue thing I can speak from experience on. Being a parent of two boys that play travel baseball, the amount of money we spend on tournaments is substantial. A couple nights in a hotel at around $100 per night. Dinners with the team, random food and drink throughout the day. All of that is money given to local businesses.

If you'd like to donate to the project, you can do so here. This is something that is much needed for our city, so please consider dropping whatever you can to help the kids!

Downtown Amarillo Over The Years

Downtown Amarillo has seen an incredible metamorphosis. Take a look at the photos below to see just how much it's changed--you won't believe the difference.

LOOK: This "Amarillo Pictorial" is an Amazing Collection of Historical Photos!

Wow. Just wow.

Robbi McDaniel Rivers dug up this incredible magazine published in 1931. You'll find the many Amarillo buildings and landmarks that you know and love--they're brand new in these photos!

Enjoy!

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