Columbus Embraces NWSL Amid Cost Concerns

Columbus City Council approved an amended proposal to bid for a National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) expansion team on April 20, 2026. The deal with Haslam Sports Group includes up to $25 million in city funding, matched by Franklin County, to support a new training facility at McCoy Park and upgrades to the ScottsMiracle-Gro Field stadium, according to WSYX.

How is the NWSL expansion in Columbus being funded?

The financial structure of the bid relies on a combination of public and private investment. According to WSYX, the City of Columbus has committed up to $25 million toward the project. This amount is matched by Franklin County, creating a $50 million public investment pool.

These public funds are designated for two primary purposes: the construction of a training facility at McCoy Park and the renovation of the existing ScottsMiracle-Gro Field stadium. Any remaining costs required for the expansion and facility development will be covered by private investors.

Why did McCoy Park neighbors oppose the training facility?

The proposal faced pushback from residents living near McCoy Park. According to WSYX, neighbors opposed the training facility because they believed the city had failed to fulfill previous promises regarding the park’s development.

Residents claimed the city had promised to upgrade the park in 2024 with inclusive equipment designed for families and children of all abilities. Opponents argued that the new soccer training facility would replace these planned community improvements, despite existing renderings for the 2024 park plan.

What changes were made to the NWSL bid proposal?

To address the concerns of McCoy Park residents, the Columbus City Council approved an amended version of the proposal on April 20, 2026. This amendment focuses on reconciling the professional sports development with the previously promised community upgrades.

The amended plan establishes a working group consisting of city officials and local neighbors. According to WSYX, this group is tasked with one of two goals: implementing the inclusive park concepts originally planned for 2024 or identifying alternative sites for the NWSL training facility.

How did the Columbus City Council vote on the plan?

The amended proposal passed with a 5-3 vote, with one member abstaining. The voting breakdown was as follows, according to WSYX:

• Voted Yes: Nicholas Bankston, Emmanuel Remy, Tiara Ross, Christopher Wyche, and Shannon Hardin.
• Voted No: Nancy Day-Achauer, Rob Dorans, and Melissa Green.
• Abstained: Lourdes Barroso de Padilla.

The decision allows the city to move forward with the Haslam Sports Group bid while attempting to resolve the conflict over public park access and inclusive infrastructure.