In the heart of Texas, a longstanding nonprofit organization is on the brink of realizing its most ambitious project yet. For over seven decades, Kids Incorporated has been a cornerstone in promoting youth sports across Amarillo. Now, it is spearheading the development of the Rockrose Sports Park, an expansive 90-acre multipurpose sports complex. This initiative aims not only to consolidate scattered programs but also to draw tourists and boost the local economy. A generous $1 million donation from philanthropist Sherry Morrison has significantly propelled the campaign toward its $30 million Phase One fundraising goal, with construction anticipated for summer 2025.
Details of the Rockrose Sports Park Initiative
In the golden hues of autumn, amid rolling plains and vast skies, lies Amarillo, Texas. Here, Kids Inc., established in 1945, has grown into a regional powerhouse serving over 18,000 children annually through various sports programs. The dream of a centralized sports complex was unveiled by President and CEO Jimmy Lackey in April 2022, branded as the "Home Field Advantage" campaign. This venture seeks to simplify operations, alleviate family burdens, and stimulate economic growth.
The journey hasn't been without challenges. In late 2024, the organization shifted from an external construction firm to Amarillo-based Southwest General Contractors, momentarily slowing progress. However, this local collaboration ensured alignment with Interstate 27 and nearby playa lakes, mitigating flood risks and expediting permit approvals. Phase One encompasses 60 acres of the total site near I-27, Hollywood Road, and Coulter Street. It features eight baseball and softball fields, 31 soccer fields, and eight Olympic-size flag football fields, all equipped with synthetic turf that requires minimal maintenance and advanced drainage systems.
This centralized facility will be a boon for families, especially those led by single parents or grandparents, offering convenience and reducing travel time across town. Moreover, the park promises to enhance Amarillo's economy by attracting sports tourism, filling hotels and restaurants, akin to successes seen in Elk City, Oklahoma, and Hereford, Texas.
Rockrose Development's generous donation of the 90-acre property in 2022 allowed Kids Inc. to focus on private fundraising efforts. If permits stay on schedule, grading could commence by early summer 2025, with full construction slated for August, aiming for completion by late 2026.
From its post-war beginnings to today's visionary plans, Kids Inc. continues to serve its community admirably. The Rockrose Sports Park symbolizes this legacy, striving to elevate both youth sports and the region's economy.
As a journalist observing this development, the story of Kids Inc. and the Rockrose Sports Park is nothing short of inspiring. It highlights the power of community-driven initiatives in shaping futures. By centralizing sports facilities and enhancing accessibility, this project exemplifies how thoughtful planning can address societal needs while fostering economic vitality. It serves as a reminder that investments in youth and infrastructure are crucial steps towards sustainable community growth. Such endeavors underscore the importance of collaborative efforts between philanthropists, local businesses, and civic leaders in transforming visions into reality, paving the way for brighter tomorrows.