‘Versatility’ Broyles’ focus for Tyson Track Complex

University of Arkansas Athletic Director J. Frank Broyles is now working on two stadium expansions.

In addition to the expansion of Razorback Stadium — which recently got a $30 million thumbs up from the UA System board of trustees — Broyles is looking into making the Randal Tyson Track Complex a multi-use facility.

Made possible by a $3 million donation from the Don Tyson family, the complex is planned for construction just west of Baum Stadium on 15th Street in Fayetteville. It was originally conceived to be used solely for indoor track and field, which only has a three-month season.

But Broyles and Assistant Athletic Director Bill Gray have approached Taylor Displays Inc., a trade show management and exhibit display company in Fayetteville, about the possibility of using the Tyson Complex as an exhibit hall during the other nine months of the year.

Taylor coordinates numerous conventions and trade shows, including Wal-Mart Stores Inc.’s annual stockholder meeting. The 87,000-SF Tyson Complex will have ample floor space for conventions, but an additional $2 million of capital would be required to equip the facility with air conditioning, kitchen facilities and meeting rooms.

The financial details are still being worked out, but the possible revenue from renting out the complex could help offset the cost of its year-round upkeep. Construction is still set to begin in March with completion targeted for November.

Broyles looks at the concept as a way “for the university to give something back to Fayetteville.” Maybe a massive exhibit hall would give back some of the business travelers the city has lost with the opening of the regional airport at Highfill.

Tyson Foods Inc. may get the most mileage out of the new plan. A Tyson Track Complex AND Convention Center would give the Springdale poultry producer year-round publicity instead of just one-quarter’s worth.