From vision to reality: McCook sports complex takes first steps

McCOOK, Neb. - In a step toward enhancing local recreational facilities, the McCook City Council convened a special meeting at noon on Monday to finalize an agreement with Mammoth Sports Construction for the design and pre-construction phases of a new sports complex.

Under the terms of the agreement, McCook will allocate $680,000 to Mammoth Sports Construction for phase one services, which encompass professional engineering, design development, and critical pre-construction planning. The initial phase sets the stage for what is estimated to be a $15 million construction project,slated to commence in January 2025. Additionally, the city will utilize $164,889.96 from remaining American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, which must be obligated by the end of this year to meet federal compliance requirements.

Mammoth Sports Construction is recognized as a leader in sports facility development, boasting experience with professional sports teams, universities, and community organizations. City of McCook’s Public Works Director, Kyle Potthoff, said, “I think the Sports Complex Committee has made a great selection. I have been very impressed.”

City Manager Nate Schneider emphasized the importance of this project, likening the engineering fees associated with the sports complex to those incurred during the city’s recent swimming pool construction. “Our estimate has consistently been around $15 million for the sports complex,” he noted, highlighting that engineering costs for the swimming pool were approximately $350,000, with the project’s total cost being approximately $6.5 Million. Schneider expressed gratitude to Mammoth for their expedited process, allowing the city to meet year-end deadlines.

He elaborated on the project timeline, stating, “While there is no specific schedule in place yet, it will be set after the completion of the pre-construction studies. I believe the process will move quickly once we receive their feedback.”

The contract stipulates that a timeline for construction will be established post-study, with a potential decision pending on whether to pursue a design-build or design-bid-build approach. Schneider reflected the excitement shared among council members and stakeholders, reiterating the significance of this initiative as a transformative project for McCook.

As the city prepares for the next steps, the anticipated sports complex promises to enhance McCook’s recreational offerings and foster community engagement while leveraging federal relief funds to bolster local infrastructure.