Plans for the USA Wrestling California training facility in northeast Tulare are coming together, sources close to the project said.
Private financing for the estimated $50-million facility is lined up, an architect and general contractor have been hired and scouting trips to similar locations are done.
“It seems everybody is moving in the right direction pretty quickly, “said Robert Valerio, the organization’s Chief Financial Officer. “We’re proud of coming to Tulare.”
And, by the way, the facility’s capacity has been increased to 16,000 seats, a move made to accommodate touring artists and stage other events.
“We want a facility the community can be proud of, “Valerio said.
A hotel to operate in conjunction with the facility is also being planned.
Tulare Mayor Craig Vejvoda praised the planned facility.
“It’ll be a tremendous addition to our community, “he said.
One year into the project, Valerio said plans are right on track.
The multi-purpose facility is also intended to host after-school programs, statewide tournaments and local events. And, yes, the facility will also be used to train amateur wrestlers.
The football field-sized floor will also be able to host big sporting events, staging two or more contests simultaneously.
A ground breaking is planned for fall 2011 and an opening in mid-2013, Valerio said.
But before those dates roll around, Lillian Collier, also with USA Wrestling California, said community input is wanted on the activities and functions the facility will host. Collier said the community’s input is also being sought on what the facility’s outside should look like.
“We need to have input, “she said.
Wrestling Gear
