Could Pittsboro Become the Next Youth Sports Destination? A 600,000 Sq. Ft. Vision Could Make It Happen

photo by Chapelboro.com

Pittsboro may be on the brink of a game-changing transformation—one that could not only improve access to youth sports but bring major economic opportunity to Chatham County.

Local resident and entrepreneur Latonya Brown is leading the charge with a bold vision: a 600,000-square-foot youth sportsplex in the heart of Pittsboro. Inspired by her own experience driving to Durham multiple times a week for her daughter’s track practice, Latonya and her husband, Quincy Brown, have proposed an innovative solution: keep families, dollars, and opportunities local.

Their venture, SUPA, recently presented a proposal to the Town of Pittsboro Board of Commissioners. And if it moves forward, it could become a true hub for youth athletics and regional tourism.

What’s Included in the Proposal?

Rendition of the indoor track planned for the facility. (Photo via SUPA)

The Browns’ plan is more than just a gym—it’s a full-scale indoor sports and learning complex that includes:

• Four indoor fieldhouses for soccer, lacrosse, football, and field hockey

• Basketball and volleyball courts

• An indoor track

• A general arena capable of hosting large events

• Learning and training spaces for health, fitness, and educational programs

  
  

The scale and ambition are impressive. Quincy Brown envisions the space not just for youth leagues, but potentially even community college teams and professional-level sports, like a volleyball franchise.

Economic and Social Impact

Beyond recreation, this project is positioned as a major economic driver. According to case studies presented during the proposal, similar complexes in other parts of the country bring in hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, translating into increased traffic for local businesses, hotels, and restaurants.

Even more promising: projections show the creation of 50 to 60 new jobs and millions in capital improvements—most of which would benefit local contractors and vendors.

A Commitment to Equity and Sustainability

SUPA’s mission includes ensuring affordable access to youth sports, with an emphasis on creating inclusive opportunities across gender, race, and income levels. And with plans to incorporate 4,000 solar panels, LEED Platinum certification, and eco-conscious construction materials, the facility could also become one of the region’s greenest commercial developments.

What’s Next?

While the Pittsboro commissioners were enthusiastic about the concept, they’re looking for more specifics—particularly around land requirements, funding needs, and partnerships with the town or county.

Still, as Commissioner John Bonitz noted during the meeting, the commitment to equitable access makes this project stand out. “Equity of access is my primary consideration,” he said. “And this really is the crux of the matter.”

Original reporting by Ben Crosbie for Chapelboro. Read the full article here.