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Abilene approves amended $4.48 million Mid America Sports contract for new sports complex
Summary
The Abilene City Commission approved an amended agreement with Mid America Sports that sets construction at about $4.48 million and keeps the city in control of contingency spending; work is expected to start in mid–late August and finish in June 2027.
The Abilene City Commission on July 13 approved an amended agreement with Mid America Sports Construction to build a four-field sports complex, setting the construction portion of the contract at $4,475,500 while excluding design and engineering fees the city says have already been paid.
Parks and Recreation Director Tim Brook, presenting the amendment, said the design committee and staff worked since January to refine scope and reduce costs. “Where we've landed is at a total of $4,475,500,” Brook said, noting the amount in the packet subtracts previously paid design fees and that the amendment clarifies contingency language so the city must expressly authorize any withdrawals.
Staff told commissioners the city will subcontract local firms for dirt work, procure lighting and other systems via competitive bids, and perform sewer and water work in-house. Finance staff said the project is funded primarily by $4 million in temporary general obligation notes and accumulated recreation sales tax revenue; the city's financial staff confirmed interest from the temporary notes has been accrued and is currently held in the debt service fund.
Commissioners pressed staff on retainage language in the amendment. A staff member explained retainage will be withheld on the first half of project value until a 50% milestone is reached and that the contract contemplates a phased reduction such that retainage would effectively drop to roughly 2.5% at substantial completion.
Commission discussion noted scope adjustments (netted backstops, concrete rather than asphalt in places, black vinyl fence and lighting) and the need for fundraising to finish certain amenities such as a concession/restroom building. Staff estimated moving dirt in mid-to-late August with overall completion targeted for June 2027.
A motion to approve the amended agreement was made and seconded and passed by roll-call vote with members present voting in favor. Two commissioners were absent at the start of the meeting.
