City of Sandpoint to host Travers Park Sports Complex open house

October 1, 2025

Ribbon cutting planned for new learning trail, Rotary Picnic Pavilion

By Zach Hagadone
Reader Staff

Though the James E. Russell Sports Center has been welcoming users for months, the city of Sandpoint is hosting an open house for the overall Travers Park Sports Complex, with highlights including a ribbon cutting by the Chamber of Commerce for the Born Learning Trail and Rotary Picnic Pavilion.

Three young Sandpointians practice tennis at the James E. Russell Sports Center. Photo by Ben Olson

Set for Saturday, Oct. 4, events at 2016 Pine St. kick off at 10 a.m. with free coffee and doughnuts, and food trucks serving breakfast and lunch for purchase. Representatives from community organizations and sports groups will also be on hand, with the ribbon cutting at 11 a.m.

From noon-2 p.m., beginner youth and adult tennis and pickleball players are invited to participate in lessons, as well as visit with vendors, including the U.S. Tennis Association, and explore the park, playground and sports center. Cornhole will also be set up inside the JER Sports Center.

Among the additions to the complex include a new playground and splash pad, as well as new batting cages.

Sponsors for the event include the city of Sandpoint, Rotary, United Way North Idaho, the East Bonner County Library, Yoke’s Fresh Market, USTA, the Sandpoint Tennis Association and Panhandle Pickleball Club, and Selkirk Sport.