Construction to Expand Bondurant Recreational Sports Complex Parking Lot to Begin on June 7th

In response to participation numbers in Bondurant Little League and the recent addition of soccer fields built by the City of Bondurant and operated by the Bondurant Soccer Club at the Bondurant Recreational Sports Complex (BRSC), construction is set to begin on an expanded parking lot. The new parking facility aims to alleviate congestion on the road leading to the complex and ensure the safety of participants and spectators attending games.

The construction project, scheduled to commence on Wednesday, June 7th, will primarily take place without disrupting the access road along Jr. Haines Parkway. However, there will be intermittent closures during the day to facilitate the installation of necessary infrastructure. The City of Bondurant will provide advanced notice to the community regarding any road closures that may occur.

With hundreds of participants in the Bondurant Little League and the Bondurant Soccer Club, the demand for parking has surged. To accommodate the increased volume and avoid potential hazards caused by parking on roadways, the BRSC's expansion project became a top priority. The project will provide approximately 142 additional parking stalls, including ADA-compliant spaces. These new parking facilities will be conveniently located adjacent to the Parkside Trail connection, scheduled for construction next year.

The need for expanded parking at the BRSC has been recognized by various organizations and groups, leading to significant financial support. The Mary Bump Foundation has generously agreed to be the fiscal agent for a $75,000 grant from the Polk County Community Development Grant Program. Polk County also provided in-kind assistance for project inspection and bidding assistance. Additionally, the Bondurant Little League secured a $15,000 Prairie Meadows Grant and plans to contribute an additional $5,000. The Bondurant Soccer Club is also contributing $5,000. The remainder of the $500,000+ project will be supported by Local Option Sales and Services Tax dollars, approved by Bondurant voters in August 2019.

The parking lot is the latest investment in the Bondurant Recreational Sports Complex. The City invested $1,412,860 to purchase the land and develop soccer fields in 2017 and 2018. The Bondurant Soccer Club secured a $27,035 Prairie Meadows grant for safety fencing and net backstops. Bondurant Soccer and the City partnered in 2021 to install a method for watering the fields that uses water from Lake Petocka. In 2022, the Men’s Club provided an $8,000 for additional fencing at BRSC. Bondurant Little League and the Bondurant Soccer Club have also played instrumental roles in providing funding and in-kind support for a variety of enhancements at the sports complex.

The completion of this parking expansion will not only enhance the safety of those accessing the BRSC but will also facilitate the smooth operation of sports activities. Currently, parents and spectators are forced to park along the road, resulting in challenging navigation through traffic. By providing ample parking spaces, the new facility will alleviate this concern and improve the overall experience for everyone involved.

The construction project is anticipated to be completed within a reasonable timeframe, minimizing inconvenience for the community. The City of Bondurant and the community organizations involved are committed to ensuring that the project progresses efficiently, with minimal disruptions to the public. By addressing the parking needs at the BRSC, this endeavor exemplifies the commitment to fostering safe and enjoyable recreational opportunities for the residents of Bondurant. Thank you to all involved for the support!