North Myrtle Beach City Council members passed several items Monday night to begin building what some are calling North Myrtle Beach's Market Common.
City Council members passed an ordinance approving a $15 million general obligation park improvement bond.
"The city is in the processing of purchasing land for a new park," a council agenda states.
The $15 million will cover the total cost of the park, which Mayor Marilyn Hatley said will include eight multipurpose sports fields, an amphitheater, a dog park, and a water park. The bond won't be issued until the city's 2012 fiscal year, but they have to pass a bond reading at a public meeting first.
City Council also authorized the purchase of 133 acres for a sports field complex. The area is near Edge Parkway and Highway 31.
The council commissioned Carolina Coastal University professor Gary M. Loftus. The study estimates a potential $14.2 million or more generated annually from more than 20 tournaments. In addition, almost new 200 jobs would be created. The city would also generate $224,000 annually in accommodation tax and hospitality fee revenues.
"It'll be a great asset to our community. Not only will it generate some shoulder season business, but also increase the quality of life for the local residents," Councilman Hank Thomas said Monday night.
