Round Rock, Texas – Round Rock officials and community members gathered this week to celebrate the completion of a significant expansion project at the Round Rock Sports Center, a move poised to elevate the city's profile as a premier destination for youth and amateur sports tournaments. The expansion, officially unveiled Monday, adds much-needed capacity to the already popular facility, enhancing its ability to host large-scale events and boosting the local economy.
The project includes the addition of over 82,000 square feet of indoor space, bringing the total indoor footprint of the sports center to over 164,000 square feet. This expanded space features 12 new regulation-size basketball courts that can be quickly converted into 24 volleyball courts, offering increased flexibility for a variety of sporting events. Improved amenities, including upgraded restrooms, concessions, and spectator seating, have also been incorporated into the expansion.
"This expansion is a game-changer for Round Rock," said Mayor Craig Morgan at the ribbon-cutting ceremony. "It allows us to attract larger and more prestigious tournaments, bringing in more visitors and generating significant economic impact for our local businesses." He emphasized the positive ripple effect the upgraded facility would have on hotels, restaurants, and retail establishments throughout the city.
The Round Rock Sports Center has become a key economic driver for the city since its initial opening in 2014. The facility has hosted numerous regional and national tournaments in sports like basketball, volleyball, wrestling, and cheerleading, attracting thousands of athletes, families, and spectators to the area annually. City officials estimate that the sports center has contributed tens of millions of dollars to the local economy each year.
"We are thrilled to offer an even better experience for athletes, coaches, and fans," said Chad McKenzie, Director of Sports Management and Tourism for the City of Round Rock. "The expanded facility allows us to accommodate more teams, offer higher-quality playing surfaces, and provide enhanced amenities that will make Round Rock an even more attractive destination for sports tourism."
The increased court space is expected to allow the city to bid on and secure even larger tournaments and sporting events. The city’s sports management and tourism department anticipates an increase in sports-related tourism spending in the coming years. This increased spending will benefit local businesses and generate more revenue for the city.
Beyond the economic benefits, the expansion also provides increased opportunities for local athletes to participate in organized sports. The additional court space can be utilized for local leagues, camps, and clinics, fostering a stronger sense of community and promoting healthy lifestyles.
The expansion project was funded through a combination of city bonds and hotel occupancy tax revenue. The city carefully planned the expansion to ensure that it would meet the growing demand for sports tourism while also being fiscally responsible.
The grand opening celebration included tours of the new facility, demonstrations by local sports teams, and family-friendly activities. The event was well-attended by community members, who expressed excitement about the enhanced capabilities of the Round Rock Sports Center.
Looking ahead, the Round Rock Sports Center is poised to continue its role as a major hub for sports tourism in Central Texas. The city is actively pursuing opportunities to host major regional and national tournaments, solidifying its position as a premier destination for athletes of all ages. The expansion is a clear demonstration of Round Rock's commitment to investing in its community and fostering a thriving sports ecosystem.
