Manatee County, Florida is seeking contractors to build a multi-sport adaptive pitch, a specialized playing surface designed for wheelchair sports, blind athletics, and other disability-specific competitions.

The project would fill a gap on Florida's Gulf Coast. Neighboring Tampa and Sarasota already have adaptive sports facilities, but Manatee County's 410,000 residents currently lack a venue for competitive adaptive athletics. About 15% of county residents report a disability, above Florida's 13% average, and the county has a significant veteran population.

The facility could also serve as a regional draw. Manatee County has been trying to position itself as a health and wellness tourism destination, and an adaptive sports venue would align with the county's 2022 economic development plan. The Tampa Bay area has seen growing interest in adaptive athletics since 2019, when the Lightning hockey team partnered with local organizations to expand sled hockey programs.

The push for adaptive sports facilities reflects a broader shift in how counties interpret disability access. After the Justice Department clarified in 2010 that ADA compliance requires genuine programmatic access, not just ramps, Florida counties faced pressure to go beyond accessible playgrounds. Sarasota County settled an ADA lawsuit in 2018 over inadequate adaptive recreation programs.

Federal pandemic recovery funds likely made the project financially feasible. Manatee County received $63.5 million in American Rescue Plan funds, with a 2026 spending deadline approaching.

The county will select a contractor in the coming months. No construction timeline has been announced.