Lewis W. Mathews Memorial Sports Complex Nears Completion in Davenport
Davenport’s major sports complex redevelopment brings six new turf fields, updated amenities, and expanded recreation opportunities to the community.
The Lewis W. Mathews Memorial Sports Complex in Davenport is getting close to being fully operational after a major redevelopment project that has completely transformed the property.
Located at 400 E. Palm Street, just outside downtown Davenport, the complex now features six artificial-turf fields: two football/soccer fields, two baseball fields, and two softball fields.
Additional improvements include batting cages, bullpens, spectator seating, updated restrooms, concession areas, a press box, and two on-site parking lots.
The City of Davenport originally budgeted approximately $8 million for the redevelopment, with later city budget documents listing construction costs at roughly $8.7 million.
The City officially held a ribbon-cutting and dedication ceremony for the renovated complex on July 4, 2026, as part of Davenport’s Independence Day celebration. However, when I visited the property recently, crews were still wrapping up some of the remaining work.
I had the opportunity to speak with someone involved in overseeing the final stages of the project. I was told that the complex could potentially be fully ready in as little as about a month, although that timeline could extend depending on final budget approvals, shipping, and installation of the remaining items.
Even with some finishing touches still underway, the scale of the redevelopment is already impressive. The two large turf fields occupy a significant portion of the property, while the four baseball and softball diamonds create a large centralized area for organized sports, practices, tournaments, and community events.
The complex also has a long history in Davenport. It was originally dedicated in 2006 and is named in honor of Lewis W. Mathews, a longtime Davenport resident who devoted considerable time to mentoring local youth and supporting recreation programs. Several of the individual fields are also named for local residents and community figures, including Davenport native and NFL player Derwin James Jr.
This project represents another significant investment in recreation infrastructure as Davenport continues to grow. Once all remaining work is finished, the Lewis W. Mathews Memorial Sports Complex should provide the city with a much larger and more modern venue for football, soccer, baseball, softball, and other community activities.
Lewis W. Mathews Memorial Sports Complex
400 E. Palm St.
Davenport, FL 33837
I recently visited the complex to see the progress firsthand. You can watch the video below for a closer look at the new fields, facilities, and the current status of the project.
