Willis ISD is proposing a $115.4 million bond package, with $68.8 million earmarked for a new stadium complex. If approved, the facility would replace the district’s 50-year-old Berton A. Yates Stadium, expanding capacity to 8,500 seats with additional amenities, including a community room, field house, concessions, and parking for 3,400 vehicles. The district cites growing enrollment and outdated infrastructure as key reasons for the upgrade.
This project would place the new stadium among the most expensive high school football facilities in Texas. It follows recent trends, such as Katy ISD’s $72 million Legacy Stadium and McKinney’s $70 million venue. Voters in nearby districts, like Prosper ISD, have also considered costly sports facility upgrades.
Additionally, the bond package includes a $27 million student activity center and a $19.6 million aquatic center. The new activity center would address UIL requirements for indoor practice space during extreme weather, while the aquatic center would eliminate the need to transport swimmers to Conroe YMCA for early-morning practices.
Voters will make their decision on Nov. 5, 2024. This is Willis ISD’s third attempt to pass a bond for athletic improvements. The district hopes the presidential election will increase turnout, leading to better outcomes for the proposal.
