Project Spotlight: Gentry Sports Complex
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To serve an expanding population, the City of Gentry partnered with McClelland Consulting Engineers, Inc. (MCE) to design and deliver an area that could grow and support their community. MCE delivered a 27‑acre Sports Complex, which includes six baseball/softball fields and sixteen soccer fields. Other additions include landscaped parking, restrooms, concessions, shaded pavilions, and drinking fountains. The space also preserves wooded areas, incorporates a nature trail, and repurposes a building now used as a maintenance facility. Our goal was to alleviate some of the pressure that comes with growth and create quality places for group sports and family recreation.
MCE led comprehensive site due diligence to identify and evaluate potential locations. Findings and recommendations were presented to the City Council and directly informed the selection and purchase of the park site. We prepared a program with input from community outreach, translating the people’s priorities into a design which connects active fields with the natural landscape. Construction documents were organized by MCE and issued through the City’s construction consultant.
This approach supported an implementation strategy focusing on different phases that aligned the scope with available funding to maintain a clear path for opening.
It was necessary to design a facility which would respond correctly to Gentry’s needs. By having fields available for multiple sports and age groups, there is an enhanced ability for league play, practices, and community games without overburdening any one facility. Our design process focused on those on the field, but also the spectators and everyday visitors who wish to enjoy the nature trails.
Having accessible concessions, drinking fountains, and available seating makes the complex accessible for the complete family experience.
Each partner, from city council members to the construction crew, contributed a distinct role to move from concept to ribbon cutting. Phase I officially opened on June 2, 2022, and the complex has broadened the community since.
Written by Paige Edmund
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