Building a sports complex is not an easy and straightforward process. You cannot compare it to building a home or an office complex. However, it is rewarding because you will be providing space for people to take part in recreational activities.
Recreational activities help to improve the health and wellness of the community. You will have played a major role in making this happen. Visit Smart Space for expert consultation on building a new sports complex.
Before you set out to build your sports complex, here are 5 top issues you need to take into account.
- Activities
The activities to be hosted in the complex are of utmost importance. They will dictate a few things with regard to safety features and the age groups you hope to host. You will need to inquire about what sports you need spaces for.
Different age groups require different safety and skill-based needs. Also important to plan for are seasonal activities so that your designers can build a sports complex that will be fitting.
- Contractors
There are many contractors to choose from. What you want is a team that has experience in building sports facilities. However, even that is not enough to sign them up. You will need to see completed projects, visit their websites and read reviews and request for testimonials.
Without a doubt you want top quality work. Thus, you will need to make comparisons. That means shortlisting 3 to 5 different contractors and comparing quality, service, pricing and experience.
Take your time with your search for the right contractor. This is important if you want your dream sports complex to come to life.
- Regulations
Different states have different building regulations. It is important to find out what the regulations in your state are and to ensure that they are adhered to. The first thing you do before you break soil is too present your plans to your local municipality’s zoning department for approval. You can only go ahead with your project once the approval has been given.
- Turfgrass or Natural Grass?
Will you use real or artificial grass? You will need to weigh the pros and cons of each before you make a decision. The best thing you can do here is to consult the experts. Turfgrass tends to get warmer faster than natural. This is important information especially for hot weather safety needs.
Should you decide to opt for natural grass, you will need to consider the following:
- Planting rate
- Planting dates
- Tillage
- Application of herbicides
- Sod, sprigs or seed
- Rolling
- Fertilizer
Do not forget about draining and irrigating. Natural grass needs irrigating to keep it fresh and supple. Turfgrass requires draining.
- Lighting and Parking
Adequate lighting is important for security purposes whether or not you intend to host night games. The best lighting to use these days is LED. The bulbs last longer and you save on power bills as they do not generate as much heat as the traditional bulbs.
You must also consider parking if you are to compete with other complexes. No one wants to walk a whole 10 minutes to get to their car.
Finally, remember that the aim is to provide space for the community to visit and indulge in their favorite pastimes. Therefore, make it fun and relaxing to enhance your visitors’ experience.
