Garland has identified a finalist to manage its new soccer complex, marking a significant step in the city’s plan to develop a 127-acre entertainment district. The city is currently in negotiations with an entity represented by Eastern Sports Management and Sports Development Group to operate the Holford Road Multi-Field Sports Complex.
Construction on the facility is scheduled to start later this fall, with city officials targeting a 2028 opening date.
Assistant City Manager Andy Hesser confirmed the selection on June 29. The contract discussions are focused on establishing the operational framework and a split fee structure for the complex. Design work for the soccer facility is ongoing as these financial and operational details are finalized.
The project is a central component of a broader redevelopment strategy for the area at Holford Road and President George Bush Turnpike. City leaders aim to capitalize on regional sports traffic and spending by creating a mixed-use destination that includes a convention hotel, food and beverage venues, and other commercial activities. Garland is located approximately 6 miles southeast of Richardson.
The city initiated its search for a new soccer operator last September. This move followed the collapse of a previous agreement with Atlético Dallas, which had proposed a $71 million deal to build a headquarters and training facility for the team. That earlier proposal did not move forward, leading Garland to seek a different partner for the complex.