Consultant J2 Engineering and Environmental Design recently delivered its feasibility study for a sports complex under consideration along Interstate 10 between Dysart Road and Bullard Avenue. The findings were then discussed by Goodyear City Council and Parks and Recreation officials.
Goodyear obtained the 129-acre property from Maricopa County in 2016 with the condition that it use the site for recreational purposes and maintain the location’s flood control function.
The idea for the sports complex includes up to 15 soccer fields that can also be used for other purposes, such as special events. A 48-court pickleball facility, trails and walking paths are also included.
The sports complex is not part of the current five-year Capital Improvement Plan and will probably not be included within the next 10 years, according to City officials. Goodyear will need to sign up partners to bring the plan to fruition.
Phasing was considered as one aspect of the potential plan. The first phase would be expected to cost approximately $65M and produce six fields, the pickleball facility, office space, parking, restrooms and other infrastructure. The second phase would yield five more fields at a cost of $43M and include more restrooms, office space and other facilities. Phase three would cost $22M and add four more fields, parking and restrooms.
Councilmembers discussed the development price and the expected $4M in annual operating costs, with some suggesting areas on the west side of the city might be more suitable. To date, Goodyear has spent approximately $200K studying the sports complex issue.
Council eventually voted to continue looking into right-of-way acquisitions for the currently proposed locations and to issue a future Request for Information. (Source)