The city is moving forward with plans to significantly enhance the community center, with discussions focusing on potential funding mechanisms and the scope of proposed improvements. During a recent council meeting, officials presented options for the project, which aims to modernize and expand the center to better serve the community.
The community center master plan highlights several major upgrades:
- : A state-of-the-art arena will accommodate 3,000 fixed seats, with the flexibility to host up to 5,000 attendees for concerts.
- : The current rectangular arena will be converted into an air-conditioned exhibition hall for larger and more versatile events.
- : To support livestock shows, a new barn will ensure adequate animal housing, as animals will no longer be housed in the revamped exhibition hall.
- : Plans include improved traffic flow, additional parking spaces, and enhanced entrances.
During the council meeting the City Manager Jesús Garza presented council with two options regarding a new rectangular arena. The two options consist of a metal roofed arena that would cost $45 million and the other a fabric covered roof that would cost $35 million. Both plans account for contingencies, ensuring flexibility for potential cost adjustments over the next one to two years.
A significant portion of the discussion revolved around the fabric roof option, which is less expensive than traditional metal but offers high durability and lower long-term maintenance costs. The roof is composed of individually replaceable panels supported by a steel frame, reducing repair costs in case of damage.
The council will continue refining funding strategies and plans. Additional information sessions, including potential site visits to similar facilities, will be held to ensure transparency and community input. Officials aim to finalize decisions by aligning the project timeline with existing events at the center, such as livestock shows.
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