Round Rock expanding “sports capital” brand with complex

​​​​ROUND ROCK - The City of Round Rock, which brands itself as the Sports Capital of Texas, is moving forward with building multipurpose fields intended to bring more sports tournaments to the city. 

The city approved a not-to-exceed amount of $22,999,000 with Joeris General Contractors for the construction of a 60-acre multipurpose field complex in Old Settlers Park.

Construction is estimated to start in January and finish spring 2017, according to Rick Atkins, Round Rock parks and recreation director.

The project will include eight regular multipurpose fields, four with synthetic turf and four with natural grass. 

Two championship fields, one natural grass and one turf, that will feature shaded seating for about 250 spectators per field are also included in the project.

"The thought process behind the multipurpose fields is we want fields that we can change and adapt to any situation, whether it’s lacrosse, soccer, rugby or [ultimate frisbee]," Atkins said.

The complex will also include a clubhouse overlooking the championship fields that will feature concessions, meeting rooms, a press box and balconies overlooking the fields.

Two plaza areas will feature playgrounds and an area to accommodate food trucks and trailers.