community for decades, desperately needed an update. Thanks to federal and state funding, the old structure was torn down to create a modern, stateof-the-art center offering a broad range of programs for Hagerstown’s youth. On the workforce development front, the D.M. Bowman Family Workforce Training Center is another game-changing addition to Hagerstown. Located on Northern Avenue, this Hagerstown Community College facility addresses the growing need for skills training and education in response to labor shortages. “This center is about making education accessible,” Nicewarner says, pointing out that not just city residents but individuals across the broader regional area will benefit. SPORTS TOURISM Hagerstown’s vision for sports tourism has rapidly materialized, transforming the city into a destination for regional and national tournaments. Nicewarner outlines the city’s long-term vision for its sports tourism sector, pointing to the thousands of visitors drawn annually to Fairgrounds Park for softball and soccer tournaments. “On a spring or summer day, you can see a thousand people playing in tournaments at Fairgrounds Park or City Park,” he says. The city has aimed to create a seamless experience where visitors can spend their days on the fields and their evenings exploring Hagerstown’s cultural offerings. “In the evening, people can head over to Meritus Park for a ball game or a concert,” he adds, noting how the city’s arts and entertainment district offers an ideal complement to its sports facilities. The Hagerstown Field House, which will be completed by January 2025, is a key part of this 234 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 10
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