SPI Insights

The city of Bryan’s $59 million regional park project is under way with several improvements to Bryan Municipal Lake that are in the design phase and set to be bid for construction in summer 2020.

Plans include building a bypass channel to hold smaller stormwater flows to assist with grading of the lake, constructing a silt pond to collect excess silt, relocating the wildlife and draining the lake, and then slightly widening and deepening the lake to hold 6 feet to 8 feet of water with new outlet control structures.

Other features also in the design phase are existing baseball fields, a perimeter trail, and a road section. The park property is comprised of almost 148 acres, including a former municipal golf course property, two smaller existing parks, and the lake.

The city issued a design-build request for qualifications (RFQ) last week for the construction of an indoor sports and events center, amphitheater, grand lawn, and other amenities at the park. The construction budget for this component of the park project is $40 million.

City officials intend the center to serve as the heart of the regional park as a facility suitable for attracting regional, state, and national indoor tournaments and events. It also will need to accommodate use by citizens and out of town visitors.

The master plan suggests a facility of at least 110,000 square feet and as much as nearly 160,000 square feet. Floor space should be large enough to house at least eight high school-sized basketball courts. Seating is preferred to be in a mezzanine area. Other space could address activities such as sports injury services, locker rooms, meeting space, food preparation, and other services as suggested by the winning firm.

RFQ applications are due 2 p.m. February 27. A non-mandatory pre-statement of qualifications conference is scheduled for 10 a.m. January 23 at the City of Bryan Purchasing Department Office at 205 E. 28th St.