Local firm looking for partners to develop former Auburn Auction Park
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A local investment firm is looking for partners to help develop “Project Elite,” what owners call a “Christ-centered sports campus” located at the former Auburn Auction Park.
Plans to develop the auction park, situated near the CR11A Interchange off I-69, have been in the works for years. In 2022, a $42 million proposal to turn the land into a sports park gained a few approvals before being shut down by DeKalb County leaders.
Now, leaders with Ambassador Enterprises have pitched “Project Elite”, aiming to transform the park into another sports-centered complex.
Organizers say they’re looking for partners with expertise in ownership, development, and management who share their vision for Project Elite to join their planning efforts.
“Our vision is to develop a world-class sports campus that integrates athletic excellence with personal growth through a Christ-centered, character-based, and servant-minded approach,” the company said on its website. “We aspire to build a community where individuals can realize their full physical and spiritual potential, guided by faith and inspired to excel on and off the field. This initiative aims to bring people together and positively impact lives through sports and spiritual development.”
They say their goal is to help invigorate the local economy by helping spur economic development including restaurants, hotels, and retail spaces to make the complex a family-friendly destination.
Ambassador Enterprises is now issuing a Request for Interest (RFI) for the project to identify partners. Potential partners can learn more and submit plans here.
“Local ownership has always been a core belief, and Daryle [CEO] and Brenda Doden are grateful residents of DeKalb County. Ultimately, our goal is to contribute to establishing a more vibrant community and robust region,” the organization’s website reads.
The group’s website lists the public release of the RFI as phase 1 of the project. The fourth and final phase, which includes selecting partners for Project Elite, is slated for early 2025.
However, they say the project is still in the early stages of planning and no plans have been finalized.