Drop Zone
Cadre Architecture + DesignDrop Zone Sports Entertainment Complex
Project Overview: Redefining Sports Entertainment Through Mass Timber Innovation
The Drop Zone Sports Entertainment Complex represents a revolutionary approach to recreational architecture, seamlessly blending cutting-edge sports facilities with sustainable mass timber construction. This dynamic 22,000-square-foot venue transforms the traditional driving range concept into a comprehensive entertainment destination that serves athletes, families, and entertainment seekers alike.
Project Specifications
- Location: Kearney, Nebraska - Adjacent to Younes Campus
- Size: 22,000 square feet
- Key Feature: Two-story mass timber driving range
- Facilities: 18-hole putting course, pickleball courts, full-service food and beverage, arcade entertainment
- Strategic Advantage: Prime visibility along US Interstate 80
- Context: Integrated within Nebraska's premier youth sports and conference destination
Architectural Innovation The Drop Zone's two-story mass timber driving range stands as the centerpiece of this entertainment complex, showcasing Timberlyne's expertise in creating large-span recreational structures. The exposed mass timber framework creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that transforms the typical sterile driving range experience into something truly special, combining the precision of athletic training with the comfort of premium hospitality.
Strategic Location Advantage Positioned strategically along US Interstate 80, the Drop Zone benefits from exceptional visibility to the thousands of travelers passing through Nebraska daily. This prime location, combined with its integration into Kearney's expanding Younes Campus, which features youth sports complexes, conference centers, hotels, and restaurants, creates a synergistic entertainment ecosystem that serves both local residents and regional visitors.
Comprehensive Entertainment Experience The facility goes beyond traditional golf entertainment, offering:
- Two-Story Driving Range: Mass timber construction creates an impressive architectural statement
- 18-Hole Putting Course: Precision-designed for players of all skill levels
- Pickleball Courts: Capitalizing on America's fastest-growing sport
- Food & Beverage Service: Full dining experience enhancing the entertainment value
- Arcade Entertainment: Multi-generational appeal for families and groups
Community Impact The Drop Zone serves as an anchor attraction within Kearney's growing sports and entertainment district, contributing to the area's reputation as a premier destination for youth sports tournaments, corporate events, and family entertainment. The facility's year-round operation ensures consistent community engagement and economic impact regardless of Nebraska's seasonal weather patterns.
Sustainable Construction Leadership Through mass timber construction, the Drop Zone demonstrates how entertainment venues can embrace sustainable building practices without compromising on performance or aesthetic appeal. The exposed timber framework creates a distinctive architectural identity that sets the facility apart from conventional sports entertainment venues while supporting environmental stewardship goals. This project positions Timberlyne as a leader in recreational mass timber construction, proving that sustainable building practices can create dynamic, high-performance entertainment destinations that serve diverse community needs while making bold architectural statements.
Client: Younes Hospitality
Architect: Cadre A+D, LLC (Cadre Architecture + Design)
Contractor: MCL Construction
Completion Date: March 2026