City of Cameron

CHALLENGE

The Yards of Cameron is a 45-acre sports complex consisting of three college-level synthetic turf baseball fields, plus softball and soccer fields. The Yards has access to Texas Highway 36 and U.S. Highways 190 and 77. These routes connect to I-35, I-45 and I-10. As Cameron, Texas is nearly equidistant from Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth, and San Antonio, it is ideally situated to host baseball tournaments for teams from the largest population centers of Texas. However, site development was challenged by poor drainage, limited utility service, and location next to a railroad line. Populous Architects, a global architectural firm specializing in the design of sports facilities, and the Cameron Economic Development Corporation sought out Walker Partners to provide innovative yet cost effective solutions for these challenges.

SOLUTION

The land slopes gradually toward the rail line which in turn collects the runoff in a small ditch. Several low areas downstream naturally flood private properties adjoining the railroad. The Client commissioned Walker Partners to design a detention pond to ensure the Yards of Cameron will not increase the storm water runoff rate. The detention pond will be constructed in phases and will be contoured to blend with adjacent sports facilities.

Most of the water and wastewater lines have been built with Phase 1 along with the Community Center, Field House, Farmers Market, access roads, and parking lots. Very little utility extension will be necessary in future phases. The water system is designed to provide ample fire protection but also meet the needs of the water-conserving landscaping.

The later phases of the project will be built at lower elevations. Grinder pumps and pressure piping will be used to connect the concession building and restrooms to the gravity wastewater collection system.

A hike and bike path was designed for the space between the sports facilities and the railroad. The railroad is also a design element for the Cameron Yoe High School Baseball Stadium. Trains run along tracks just beyond the outfield fence and often blow their whistles during games.

VALUE

The first two phases have been constructed under the City of Cameron’s $4 million budget. Walker Partners has helped to bring statewide baseball and softball tournaments to Cameron and foster community spirit and economic development. Walker Partners was able to turn area obstacles into assets, and transformed a vacant tract of land into a thriving community gathering place and sports destination.  

completion date: 2015

location: cameron, tx