New Caney’s A.V. ‘Bull’ Sallas Park fast-tracked a large renovation to bring needed sports and recreation fields to the complex, along with new amenities to support the adjacent rodeo arena, show barn and fair association building that are home to one of the county’s most popular draws, the East Montgomery County Fair & Rodeo.
M2L Associates led the project as the prime consultant, working closely with county officials and precinct staff to ensure tight project management and strict adherence to the condensed project timeline.
Work began in mid-May and concluded in September on the first phase of the $2.6 million renovation. Staying on track with the project’s aggressive project schedule was essential for the park to be open in time for youth football season and popular events surrounding the county fair, such as the annual barbeque cookoff, rodeo and livestock show, and music concerts. In addition to the new sports fields and park amenities, the project scope included much-needed paved parking, a new park entrance and better traffic flow to support the largest events of the year.
Named in honor of the late A.V. “Bull” Sallas, a longtime Montgomery County commissioner who was instrumental in making the park possible, Sallas Park was first dedicated in 1987 just as many northeastern Houston developments and master-planned communities like Kingwood were born. The park was an immediate draw for youth sports and activities in eastern Montgomery County.
“With these additions and renovations, Sallas Park can provide an important backdrop for new generations to make memories,” M2L Associates Principal Michael Mauer said. “From the excitement of youth football to attending county fairs, to gathering for family reunions on the park grounds, Sallas Park is bigger and better than ever. The condensed timeline was a great challenge for everyone involved, and we’re proud to have accomplished this project in the client’s timeline.”
The project included demolition of existing baseball, softball and football fields to allow for the park’s reconfiguration and provide an additional 400-car asphalt parking lot strategically to support annual county fairs and events. The project team designed three new football fields, along with sidewalks, repurposed bleachers, sports field lighting, backstop netting, press boxes and concrete furniture pads.
Water conservation and sustainability methods were important components of the project. Designers incorporated a recycled-water system from an existing wet detention pond to support the irrigation needs of the new sports fields. Future plans include a new playground and improved trails across the grounds.