Davidson County commissioners approve design contract, sponsorship plan for proposed Southmont sports complex amid wide public debate

Commissioners on Monday approved a sponsorship package and authorized a design contract to advance planning for a proposed Southmont Community Center and sports complex, a $65 million project that drew sustained public comment on traffic, environmental and emergency-response impacts.

Supporters and opponents used the meeting’s public address period to urge the board to either accelerate the project as a countywide youth and economic-development priority or to pause for additional traffic, environmental and infrastructure studies. After discussion, commissioners approved the sponsorship framework and a contract with Providence Partners to begin architectural and engineering design work.

The sponsorship plan presented by Parks and Recreation totaled roughly $6.97 million in identified naming-right opportunities, field sponsorships and area naming (including an overall naming sponsor and an aquatic sponsor). The board voted to approve the plan as a starting point to solicit corporate sponsors.

The board also approved a professional-services agreement with a design team (Providence Partners and subconsultants) to move the project from the concept plan to design and permitting. County staff said the negotiated contract for design services is $4,155,250. The board approved the design…