May 2026 Bond Election

Proposed Stadium Project

The Royal ISD Board of Trustees has called a bond election for May 2026. The proposed bond includes a districtwide stadium project and follows review of enrollment projections, long-term facility planning information, and financial data.

This website provides information about the proposed bond, including project scope, estimated costs, tax impact, and election details, so voters can review factual information about the proposed bond.

Information is provided for informational purposes only.

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The Proposal

What is included in the bond?

The May 2026 bond proposal includes funding for a districtwide stadium project located near the new Royal High School site and designed to support student programs and school activities across the district.

Key elements of the proposed stadium project include:

  • Seating capacity of approximately 7,500

  • Location near the new Royal High School site along FM 362, south of FM 529, and north of future Morton Road

  • Multi-use design intended to support athletic programs, fine arts, and school events

  • Competition field, track, lighting, press box, concessions, and parking

  • Infrastructure designed to support long-term districtwide use

The estimated planning-level cost range for the proposed stadium project, based on current assumptions, is $68 million to $72 million. Final costs would depend on design, market conditions, and construction timing.

Bond funds may only be used for capital projects and cannot be used for operating expenses such as salaries, utilities, or instructional programming.

Why Now

Planning for Enrollment Growth and Facilities

Royal ISD is experiencing sustained enrollment growth associated with residential development across the district. As student enrollment increases, the district must evaluate how facilities support current and future programs.

Key considerations include:

  • Continued enrollment growth projections

  • Construction of a new Royal High School

  • The need to align major facilities with future campus locations as enrollment grows

  • Limitations of existing athletic facilities relative to district size and geography

  • Consideration of long-term planning efficiencies through centralized facilities

The proposed stadium project reflects a planning-level approach intended to align facilities with anticipated enrollment growth and future district needs.

Tax Impact

Understanding the Financial Context

If approved, the proposed bond would be repaid through the district’s Interest & Sinking (I&S) tax rate, which is used solely for debt repayment related to voter-approved bonds.

Key financial considerations include:

  • Based on planning-level analysis, the projected tax rate impact is similar across the stadium options evaluated.

  • Bond funds cannot be used for day-to-day district operations.

  • Tax rates are set annually and may vary based on property values and state funding.

Over-65 Homestead Exemption:
Homeowners aged 65 and older who qualify for the homestead exemption would not see an increase in their school district taxes on their primary residence as a result of this bond, in accordance with state law.

Additional tax impact details and examples will be provided as information becomes available.

Election Information

Voting Details

  • Election Day: May 2, 2026

  • Early Voting: April 20–28, 2026

  • Polling Locations: To be announced by the county election authority

FAQs