Athletes Gain Unique Playing Fields in Goldsboro, North Carolina
The City of Goldsboro is excited to announce the grand opening of what has become one of the most unique sports venues in the country, the Bryan Multi-Sports Complex. The opening ceremony is scheduled to take place on the grounds of the complex located at 501 South Oak Forest Road on Monday, April 23rd, at 10 a.m., and the event is open to the public. The ceremony will entail a ribbon-cutting, guest speakers, musical performances, a jet dedication for the F-4E Phantom permanent display, and a two-ship flyover by F-15E Strike Eagles. Alongside leadership from the city and Seymour Johnson AFB, special guest Mr. John Henderson, Assistant Secretary of USAF Installations, will be present for the historic occasion. “The city has been working towards this day for so long, and it wouldn’t have been possible without the help and persistent efforts of Seymour Johnson AFB, the U.S. Air Force, and generous sponsors, such as the Bryan Foundation,” said Randy Guthrie, Assistant City Manager.
In many ways, the multi-sports complex is the first of its kind. Randy Guthrie explains it is “the product of a joint P4 partnership between a military base and its home community. This P4 collaboration between the City of Goldsboro and Seymour Johnson Air Force Base is part of a pilot project to share resources among government and private entities to reach common goals. The United States Air Force is leasing its land to the city to promote economic impact, and in return, the city has built a 2,500 sq. ft. addition onto SJAFB’s main fitness center. It’s a prime example of how positive collaboration between the Air Force and neighboring communities can strengthen the quality of life throughout the region.”
Located on 63 acres of Seymour Johnson AFB, the complex has six irrigated natural Bermuda hybrid and two artificial turf fields all installed on engineered soils. Currently, three fields are illuminated with plans to install lighting on all eight fields. Additional amenities include a cutting-edge fieldhouse with meeting space and concessions, premium restroom facilities, paved parking areas, and a retired F-4E Phantom on static display welcoming visitors to the site. This aircraft was assigned to the 334th “Eagles” Fighter Squadron for its entire distinguished history from September 1977 to December 1990. This aircraft was the last operational F-4E to serve at Seymour Johnson AFB.
A custom splash pad, playground, and covered picnic shelters are expected to be installed at the complex in the near future. “We wanted to make sure the complex caters to the multi-faceted needs of the community and visitors. The playground, splash pad, covered picnic shelter, and walking trails will make the complex a park and inviting for the public to enjoy,” said Scott Barnard, Director of Goldsboro Parks & Recreation.