Local athletes in the areas of basketball, volleyball, cheerleading, and futsal could soon have a new facility to call home, as the Keller City Council has granted approval for an $18 million indoor sports complex. The project, a joint effort between ME Development LLC and Healthletic Partners, is set to undergo a six-month due diligence period, with plans to bring a 60,000- to 75,000-square-foot facility to the northwest corner of the Keller Sports Park.
"This is an incredible sports family community, and we're excited about what is happening at the park," said Danny Cooper, principal at Healthletic Partners. "The city has shown a commitment to this project, and now we have the perfect opportunity to bring an indoor component to this site."
While ME Development and Healthletic Partners have undertaken various projects throughout the state, the Keller facility represents a unique endeavor. Esteban Mariel, Principal at ME Development, expressed his mission to create something purposeful. "Getting the opportunity to work with the city and the community organizations on this project, where we can see the real impact it will have, I think it's going to give us the best possible outcome."
The project has been in discussions with council members, city staff, and leaders of the Keller Youth Association (KYA) for several months. KYA anticipates relocating its basketball and cheerleading leagues to the new facility, and using the partnership to introduce a volleyball program.
Chris DeBerry, the KYA vice president in charge of basketball, noted the growth in youth basketball within the community, stating, "There's been an explosion in youth basketball in the community; our numbers have doubled over the last five years, and we expect that to continue. And I can't express just how big volleyball is going to be; girls in our community drive across the metroplex up to three times a week to play."
The approved ground lease encompasses approximately 7.8 acres of land at 401 Golden Triangle Blvd. and spans 50 years, with the possibility of a 10-year extension. The annual rent payments will commence at $15,000 and increase every decade, potentially reaching $31,000.
Pending successful feasibility assessments, ME Development and Healthletic Partners aim to synchronize their construction with the city's forthcoming Keller Sports Park improvements. This would lead to groundbreaking next year, with doors expected to open in late 2025.
KYA President Calvin Washington expressed his excitement, stating, "I have been dreaming and praying for something like this for many years. We just celebrated our 50th anniversary as an organization, and wow — what a gift."
