Isn’t it exciting that Hickory Slough Sportsplex is about to get even better? The city of Pearland is investing millions to expand this already fantastic facility. Soon Hickory Slough Sportsplex will offer even more opportunities for sports and recreation.
Hickory Slough Sportsplex is located at the southwest corner of Hughes Ranch Road and Max Road. It is a hub for local youth sports. Pearland Youth Lacrosse and Shadow Creek Soccer Club both use the sportsplex. These organizations collectively serve over 1,300 participants.
The expansion project is a major undertaking. It will cost an estimated $17.6 million. The city approved the initial design phase in January. Kimley Horn and Associates received a $1.69 million contract for this phase. The design phase is expected to take about a year. Construction should start in June 2025.
What exactly will the expansion of Hickory Slough Sportsplex include? Six new lighted sports fields are planned. Four will be for soccer and two will be multipurpose. Half of the fields will have synthetic turf and half will have natural turf. In addition to the fields, the project includes more parking. A pavilion will also be built. Restroom and concession facilities will be expanded. A small maintenance building is planned too. There will even be a new playground and a picnic area. Lighting will be added to the three existing fields and parking lots.
The expansion of Hickory Slough Sportsplex will cover 25 acres. This includes adding greenspace. Shade and ornamental trees will be planted. Shrubs and groundcover will also be added. A sod farm is part of the plan. A new gate entrance will connect to the expanded parking lot. The park’s existing features will be evaluated to ensure everything is well-connected. A retaining wall will be built along the site’s fire lane.
Hickory Slough Sportsplex uses a portion of a regional detention facility. As part of the expansion, additional drainage will be installed. The drainage project was approved in the 2019 Bond Program. It will increase the detention facility’s stormwater capacity. The facility will expand by 95 acre-feet to a total of 248 acre-feet.
City officials are working closely with sports leagues. This ensures the players’ and spectators’ needs are met. The project is funded in part by the Pearland Economic Development Corporation. They plan to contribute $1.6 million in bond payments.
The expansion of Hickory Slough Sportsplex represents a significant investment in the community. It provides enhanced recreational opportunities for residents. It supports local youth sports organizations. It also addresses important infrastructure needs. All this makes Hickory Slough Sportsplex a valuable asset for Pearland.