During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the upcoming opening of Lakewood Park, which will feature the area's first official cricket facility. The park is nearing completion and is expected to open by the end of October or early November, pending the growth of the fields.
Recognizing the anticipated popularity of the cricket pitch, staff proposed establishing a reservation process similar to that used for other athletic facilities. Currently, reservations are primarily for pavilions and athletic fields, but the cricket pitch's unique location between two soccer fields raises concerns about scheduling conflicts. Officials emphasized the need to manage reservations effectively to accommodate the expected demand.
The discussion included insights from neighboring communities regarding their cricket facilities. Little Elm operates an open-use model, while Frisco has a reservation system that prioritizes league play. Flower Mound requires reservations for its dedicated cricket pitch. Officials noted that the demand for cricket is growing, and they are exploring additional opportunities to expand cricket facilities in the area.
Participants in the meeting expressed the importance of implementing a fair reservation system that prevents monopolization of the pitch by any single group. Suggestions included charging a nominal fee for reservations to discourage no-shows and ensure equitable access for residents and non-residents alike.
The meeting concluded with a consensus to revisit the topic in November, where staff will present detailed recommendations for the reservation process, including potential fees and scheduling guidelines. This proactive approach aims to ensure that the cricket facility meets community needs while managing the complexities of shared sports spaces effectively.