Setting the Bar Higher: A Record Setting Year at the CITGO Lake Charles Refinery
March 2026
From Global Projects to Local Impact
March 2026
Slated for completion in August 2027, the new facility will host national tournaments, serve as a community hub and provide resiliency during emergencies.
Exciting progress is underway on Lake Charles’ future indoor sports complex. In recent weeks, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development approved the 1 Lakeshore Drive site as being located in a low-to-moderate income area, a key milestone for the project. This designation ensures the facility will serve as a resource for the entire community while meeting federal guidelines.
City administration is currently working with consultants to develop a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) and Request for Proposals (RFP), which will invite qualified architects and engineers to submit proposals for consideration. This process is critical in selecting the design team that will bring the vision to life.
The complex is scheduled to feature up to eight basketball courts that can easily transition to volleyball and pickleball courts. It will also accommodate cheer and dance competitions, corn hole tournaments and be open for community recreational use when not hosting events. Built to national tournament standards, the facility will attract high-level competitions, further positioning Lake Charles as a regional sports destination and creating a significant economic impact.
“This facility is more than just a sports complex. It’s an investment in our community’s future,” says Mayor Marshall Simien. “It will provide opportunities for recreation, economic growth and serve as a safe haven during times of need. We are building something that will benefit Lake Charles for generations.”
Beyond sports, the complex will serve as a resiliency hub during emergencies, providing a safe and functional space for disaster response and recovery. Funded through the Resilient Communities Infrastructure Program, the project is on track for completion by August 2027.
For more information and to follow future updates, visit cityoflakecharles.com.
