Larry Kiesling Youth Sports Complex

The Larry Kiesling Youth Sports Complex in Kenedy, Texas, is a completed new construction project valued at $6,500,000. Located at 100 Bellaire Blvd in Karnes County, the facility includes four new playing fields, two concession stands, a restroom facility, spectator seating, and upgraded utility infrastructure. The project passed its final TDLR accessibility inspection in September 2022, confirming that construction is complete.

Hanson Professional Services served as the design firm of record for this development. The estimated cost of $6,500,000 places the project above the median estimated cost for new construction filings in Karnes County, which stands at $1,400,000. While the total investment is significant, the cost per square foot is $11, well below the county median of $271. This disparity reflects the expansive nature of the site, which covers 616,630 sq ft.

Construction Timeline and Location

Construction began in September 2019, shortly after the project was registered with TDLR in October 2019. The filing indicated a completion date of September 2022, a timeline that spanned approximately 1,096 days. This duration is longer than the median scheduled build window of 242 days for similar projects in the county.

The complex is developed on public land by the City of Kenedy, with James Sutton listed as the Mayor. Funding sources include public funds, ensuring the facility serves as a community asset. Nearby businesses include H-E-B Fuel, McDonald's, Dollar General, and The Lodge At Kenedy, placing the sports complex within a commercial corridor that supports local traffic and tourism.

According to U.S. Census ACS 2023 five-year estimates, the ZIP code 78119 has a population of about 7,023 residents. The median household income in this area is $45,694, and the median owner-occupied home value is $128,500. The housing stock is primarily owner-occupied, with 2,375 housing units recorded. This demographic context highlights the importance of local recreational facilities for a community of this size and economic profile.

Hanson Professional Services has been involved in six other TDLR-registered projects totaling $3,550,000, including the Arroyo Colorado Kayak Launch in Harlingen and the Bejerano McFarland Trail in Laguna Heights. Their portfolio demonstrates a focus on public infrastructure and recreational development across South Texas. The Larry Kiesling Youth Sports Complex stands as a substantial addition to Kenedy's civic landscape, providing dedicated spaces for baseball and softball activities.