Texarkana planning commission recommends rezoning, approves conditional use for MMA venue at 700 East Bridal

The Texarkana Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend rezoning the property at 700 East Bridal from W-1 (warehousing/wholesale) to C-1 (more restrictive commercial) and approved a conditional use permit to operate a commercial amusement venue, including mixed martial arts events.

Applicant Byron Began told the commission he represents B.M.F. and plans to invest “a couple of 100,000” in renovations to the old Stone Studios building, lease the property and purchase it in about 18 months, and host fight nights, youth and adult training and other events. “We’re gonna put a lot of money into this building,” he said. He estimated seating capacity at “probably 800 to 1,000.”

Commissioners and staff discussed zoning options and oversight. Staff noted that C-2 zoning would allow a bar or nightclub as a use by right, while C-1 would make a bar subject to conditional-use review. That concern prompted a commissioner to propose rezoning the parcel to C-1 so the commission would retain review authority if a future owner sought a liquor license. An unidentified commissioner said, “I’d like to give him a shot and, see if we can make this happen,” and supported the motion to reclassify the lot to C-1.

The commission’s votes are recommendations to the city board. Staff told the applicant the city board must approve the rezoning; staff noted the city board’s hearing is scheduled for the first Monday in September. The commission separately approved the conditional use permit for the commercial amusement venue; staff said the conditional-use review addresses the MMA venue specifically, while rezoning determines the parcel’s broader permitted uses.

Byron said he has discussed security, fire-safety and sanctioning procedures with local authorities and the state athletic commissioner. He identified Charles McDuffie as the likely head of his security staff and said he has conferred with the fire department and the state fire marshal’s office over drawings. Byron also said the promoter holds multiple state licenses and expects to apply for a liquor license if the rezoning is resolved.

Key facts recorded at the hearing: the property was described as containing approximately 2.223 acres; the applicant estimated renovation costs at “a couple of 100,000” (not itemized); the applicant said annual insurance for fighters runs about $16,000; seating was estimated at roughly 800–1,000. The commission voted by roll call with Anita Pickett, Jason Dupree, Chris Owens, Corey Mox, Max Thomas and Chairman Neal recorded as voting “Yes” on the rezoning recommendation and on the conditional use permit.

The commission’s recommendation to rezone will be forwarded to the city board for final action. The conditional use permit is approved by the commission; staff will issue formal notice and follow-up with the applicant on next steps.