Sports Complex Moves Forward at Cape May County Airport

In a landmark decision, the Delaware River and Bay Authority has paved the way for an extraordinary development at the Cape May County Airport Complex.

Last month, Aviation Sports Complex LLC received approval from the authority’s board of commissioners for a preliminary lease agreement, marking the beginning of a revolutionary project set to redefine sports and recreation in the region.

The proposed multisport domed facility, designed by Aviation Sports Complex LLC, is poised to become a game-changer, offering an unparalleled sports and entertainment experience for residents and visitors alike.

The 80,000-square-foot dome, a first of its kind in the area, will encompass a diverse range of amenities, including an indoor track, soccer field, lacrosse field, futsal court, golf simulators, and dedicated areas for jujitsu and healthy heart classes.

The approved lease spans an ambitious 20-year term, during which Aviation Sports Complex LLC plans to transform approximately 5 acres of prime land into a cutting-edge sports hub.

This facility is not just about sports; it’s a multifunctional space, featuring a welcome center, food facilities, and areas designed for hosting parties and special events.

Originally planned behind the Cape May Brewing Co and adjacent to the Lower Township Municipal Court, the location of the complex has been strategically shifted next to the water tower.

This adjustment addresses concerns and optimizes the space for increased parking and improved traffic flow, as confirmed by project officials.

The project is behind led by Bob Buglak, a local realtor and loan officer with TriState Lending Group, who sees this venture as a scalable business opportunity with the potential to significantly boost the local economy, particularly during the off-season.

Everyone knows that here in Cape May County, we can use more indoor year-round activities.

Buglak’s vision for the complex extends beyond sports, aiming to provide year-round activity opportunities for special education students through collaborations with local schools.

The complex aims to fill a void in the region by attracting tournaments and extending sports league play through the winter months. Buglak’s personal connection to the project, driven by his son’s experiences in a local soccer league, highlights the necessity for such indoor facilities in the area.

Overcoming hurdles, including approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which regulates projects in close proximity to airports, the project gained momentum in 2023. The FAA’s green light was a crucial milestone, setting the stage for the innovative sports complex to become a reality.

The facility’s blueprints haven’t changed in this shifting of locations. The one design allows for various sports activities, including soccer fields of different sizes, volleyball, and three pickleball courts.

Which sport are you more excited to play inside this new dome when it opens?