The city of Garland has selected a finalist to manage a new soccer complex that will serve as the centerpiece of a 127-acre entertainment district. Construction on the facility is scheduled to start later this fall, with city officials targeting a 2028 opening date.
Garland Assistant City Manager Andy Hesser confirmed on June 29 that the municipality is in contract discussions with an entity represented by Eastern Sports Management and Sports Development Group. This group has been chosen to run the Holford Road Multi-Field Sports Complex.
The project is a key component of a broader redevelopment strategy designed to capture regional traffic and spending generated by sports activities. City leaders aim to direct these economic benefits to the community, which is located approximately 13 miles northeast of Dallas. The master plan for the site at Holford Road and President George Bush Turnpike includes a convention hotel, food and beverage venues, and other mixed-use developments.
Mayor Dylan Hedrick stated that current negotiations are focused on defining the operational framework and fee split structure for the complex. These discussions are occurring simultaneously with ongoing design work for the soccer facility.
The city initiated its search for a new operator last September. This move followed Garland’s decision to withdraw from a previous agreement with Atlético Dallas. That earlier deal, valued at $71 million, would have established a headquarters and training facility for the soccer club in the area.
