2016—Mesquite Memorial Stadium

Mesquite ISD—Mesquite Memorial Stadium
Architect: WRA Architects

Total renovation of a 20,000-seat stadium. Major design goals were to modernize its appearance, construct a larger Pressbox to meet Texas 5A-6A requirements, and larger Locker Rooms. Finished project is 18,750 seats with larger Concourse, improved spectator access to Restrooms and Concessions, expanded Concourse-level viewing of the field, expanded Concessions queuing and serving, extensive media technology upgrades, upgraded security and better separation of performing students from spectators.

Community

The project was a major upgrade to a 40-year old stadium. At 18,750 seats (was 20,000), it is one of the largest high school stadiums in Texas. Due to its unusual size, it has long been one of the premier venues in Texas for regional Athletic and Band competitions. It also serves the District’s five high schools for Football, Soccer, and Band competitions.

Design

As one of the largest high school stadiums in Texas, it has long been one of the premier venues in the state for regional Athletic and Band competitions. The all new Press box features upgraded media technologies. New Home and Visitor team Locker Rooms are larger and have been relocated to the field level. Entire facility has improved accessibility provisions and upgraded security measures. Additional redesign features included providing better separation of performing students from spectators.

Planning

District goal was to modernize the 40-year old stadium and its amenities to attract more statewide playoff football games and regional band competitions who now favor newer stadiums. Items addressed included a new Press box, improving site circulation, creating larger drop-off areas, opening up the Concourse to view the field, modernizing Restrooms, new Concessions, enhancing student performer and spectator security, making repairs common to aging buildings, and adding more handicap seating.

Sustainability

A 40 year old facility was renovated and modified in lieu of tearing down and building a new stadium. This sustainable approach saved money and energy by making an existing stadium better and extending the life of the stadium for decades.

Value

A 40 year old facility was renovated and modified in lieu of tearing down and building a new stadium. This sustainable approach saved money and energy by making an existing stadium better and extending the life of the stadium for decades.

School Transformation

21st Century skills taught through the extracurricular activities of Athletics and Fine Arts competitions are reinvigorated by this major upgrade. The facility has long been one of the premier venues drawing high school participants from all over the State of Texas for regional Athletic and Band competitions. Major improvements and additions included many new I.T., broadcast, and media presentation technologies and significant modernization to the facility’s accessibility, safety, and security.

Stars of Distinction Star of Distinction Category Winner