The Moscow City Council is set to review a proposal for a new indoor airsoft facility at a meeting scheduled for next week. This initiative, presented by entrepreneur Christopher King, aims to create a venue where patrons can safely engage in airsoft competitions. The proposed location for the facility is at 105 Lauder Ave, but it requires a special exception from city regulations that currently prohibit discharging any type of firearms, including airsoft guns, within city limits.
Airsoft guns, which fire small plastic projectiles, are designed to be non-lethal and do not penetrate the skin, according to King. If approved, the facility would provide an arena for customers to participate in matches similar to paintball games, featuring both competitive playfields and target shooting lanes. To ensure safety, customers would be required to wear eye and face protection, along with additional protective clothing. Additionally, minors aged 10 to 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, while children younger than 10 would not be permitted on the playfield.
King has assured that facility employees will monitor all weapons to confirm they are airsoft guns, even if they resemble real firearms. Bryce Blankenship, a member of the City Council, raised concerns regarding the potential for realistic-looking airsoft guns to be carried in the parking lot, which could alarm the public. King acknowledged the importance of adhering to legal requirements and expressed a desire to avoid any negative perceptions of the facility.
East City Park Stage Update
In addition to the airsoft proposal, the Moscow City Council is also considering developments regarding the East City Park stage. On Monday, Cody Riddle, the Deputy City Administrator, provided an update on the project, revealing that the city has received two design submissions for the new stage. City staff will review these designs ahead of a planned vote on a professional services agreement with the chosen designer on December 15, 2026.
Construction of the new stage is anticipated to begin in September 2026, following major events in East City Park. The existing stage was dismantled due to safety concerns stemming from deterioration. Preliminary design concepts suggest that the new stage will be integrated with the park’s current restroom facilities, featuring a roof that extends over the stage area. The city has allocated a budget of $885,000 for this project, which aims to enhance community events and gatherings in the park.
As discussions continue, both proposals reflect the city’s commitment to providing recreational opportunities while ensuring safety and compliance with regulations.
