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Bastrop council reviews Mayfest Park plan and feasibility study for covered rodeo arena
Summary
City staff told council a community survey and industry experts favor a covered arena at Mayfest Park to expand events beyond rodeo; staff said a feasibility study will arrive in two weeks and emphasized ADA access, parking and long-term programming needs.
City Manager Sylvia reported that a community survey and concurrent feasibility work for Mayfest Park showed broad local support for a covered arena and related amenities, saying the "vast majority" of respondents wanted a covered arena, trees and shade, improved restrooms and RV hookups. She told the council the cover could allow concerts, festivals and other events in addition to rodeos, but cautioned that a cover "can't be a half-baked solution" and that significant supporting improvements — seating, parking surfacing and ADA access — would be required.
Council members pressed staff on capacity and seating plans. Mayor Pro Tem Kirkland asked whether the existing arena footprint is large enough and how many seats the city should plan for, noting the difference between adding seats on one side versus building upward or adding rows. Council member Meyer cited a recent rodeo with roughly 4,000 attendees (many standing) as evidence of demand and urged a full-package approach: "If you're gonna do it, do it right," she said. Sylvia said the feasibility study is expected within two weeks and staff will present findings to the parks board before returning to council with specific recommendations and any proposed zoning or code amendments.
