Bay County will celebrate the grand opening of the new Southport Recreational Complex with a ceremonial first pitch at 9 a.m. on Saturday, March 7. The park is located at 8598 State Road 77. The ceremony will coincide with the start of spring league baseball, marking the official opening of the county’s newest recreational facility.
The opening program will include a presentation by the Deane Bozeman School JROTC, a special performance by Tracy Mick, and the first pitch by former Bay County Commissioner Guy Tunnell. Free refreshments will be available following the ceremony. Food trucks will also be on site, and the concession stand will be open for additional food purchases.
Located just off State Road 77, north of County Road 2300, the Southport Recreational Complex spans approximately 37 acres. The $13.9 million project is funded through a $10 million bond, American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds and impact fees.
The new complex will significantly expand recreational opportunities in the Southport area. The addition of the new fields will help meet growing demand, reduce travel for local families and relieve pressure on existing parks throughout the county.
The complex features six baseball fields, four batting cages and a walking trail around the park’s perimeter. A playground is planned for construction in 2027. The facility is designed to host recreational baseball and softball leagues as well as travel tournaments and includes modern amenities such as live-streaming capabilities and technology upgrades for players and spectators.
“The Southport Recreational Complex is a major investment in our families and in the future of youth sports in Bay County,” said Commissioner Doug Moore. “For years, our local leagues have managed crowded schedules and limited field space. This facility gives our children first-class fields to play on and allows us to host tournaments that will benefit our entire community.”
The public is invited to attend the March 7 first pitch ceremony and help kick off the spring baseball season.