BLITAR – The Blitar city government is expanding Blitar sports facilities by developing new community sports centers across neighborhoods. The city also continues improving its main sport center to support public sports activities.
The city’s Youth and Sports Agency (Dispora) leads the initiative. The program aims to promote a healthier lifestyle and provide wider access to sports facilities.
Acting Head of Dispora Blitar, Heru Eko Pramono, said the city no longer focuses only on athlete training. Instead, the government now prioritizes facilities that residents can use for daily exercise.
“Dispora continues to develop sports infrastructure for the people of Blitar,” Heru said. “We want residents to use these facilities, not only athletes.”
Dispora has begun upgrading the city’s sport center in stages. The project includes extending the jogging track and adding supporting facilities.
The improvements aim to make the sport center more comfortable for visitors. Officials hope it will become a major hub for community sports.
The upgraded facility may also attract visitors from nearby areas outside Blitar.
Heru said the growing number of visitors could stimulate local economic activity. Food vendors, sports equipment rentals, and other small businesses could benefit.
“We hope the sport center becomes a place for exercise and economic growth,” he said. “Local residents should also benefit from the activity there.”
At the same time, Dispora has started mapping several kelurahan, or urban villages. Officials want to identify areas that could become new community sports centers.
The program focuses on free public sports facilities. Many existing facilities remain underused across neighborhoods.
Some locations even show damage due to poor maintenance.
Through the mapping process, Dispora will identify strategic areas for development. The agency will also upgrade facilities so residents can use them more effectively.
Heru said the city wants to strengthen a culture of sports participation.
“With this program, we want people to embrace sports and stay active,” he added.
The expansion of Blitar sports facilities will spread sports activities across many neighborhoods. Currently, most residents gather at the main sport center. City officials also hope the program will reduce overcrowding at the central sports complex.