The Bastrop City Council and Bastrop Economic Development Corporation held a joint meeting on December 3, 2024, to discuss the growing demand for sports tourism in the region and the city's potential role in this market. The meeting focused on the competitive landscape of sports facilities in the Greater Austin area and the need for Bastrop to position itself effectively to attract sports tourism dollars.

During the discussions, it was noted that the demand for youth sports participation has significantly outpaced the supply of facilities. This trend has prompted several municipalities in the Greater Austin area to explore opportunities to develop sports tourism facilities. The council emphasized the importance of a phased approach to development, allowing Bastrop to adapt to market changes and remain competitive.

Participants highlighted the need for Bastrop to be aware of competing cities that are also vying for sports tourism. The conversation included the potential for a "first mover advantage," suggesting that Bastrop could benefit from being proactive in its development plans. However, this advantage comes with risks, and the council acknowledged the necessity of being flexible with design and incentive packages to attract developers and facility operators.

The meeting also included a market analysis, which revealed a lack of sports tourism-generating facilities in the immediate area. This analysis underscored the rationale for considering new projects aimed at capturing the sports tourism market. The council reviewed regional facilities and their performance, aiming to understand how they draw visitors and how Bastrop can leverage its unique position.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the urgency for Bastrop to engage in strategic planning for sports tourism development. The council's discussions highlighted the competitive nature of the market and the need for thoughtful, flexible approaches to ensure Bastrop can capitalize on the growing interest in sports tourism. Further steps will be necessary to refine development strategies and engage with potential partners in the coming months.