Stadium Updates

[ArgoRavi]

Now that the THF in Hamilton has been granted its occupancy permit ..... is it ready for a Grey Cup 2016?

I suspect that the 2016 Grey Cup will be played in Toronto as part of the entire deal between Braley and MLSE if they can reach an agreement in time. If not, then there should be little reason why THF can't host that Grey Cup.

[Fumblitis]

I suspect that the 2016 Grey Cup will be played in Toronto as part of the entire deal between Braley and MLSE if they can reach an agreement in time. If not, then there should be little reason why THF can't host that Grey Cup.Is that for the lease for the Argos to play there or for the outright purchase of the team?

[Downtownfan]

Is that for the lease for the Argos to play there or for the outright purchase of the team?

Either way with a lease (more likely) or outright ownership by MLSE, my betting is that the plan is the have the GC at the renovated BMO in November 2016 with the temp stands, and keep them in place for a Winter Classic/Heritage classic in January of 2017, to be part of the Maple Leafs 100th anniversary celebrations. Makes too much sense not to happen this way. You would have two events within a couple of months that would generate tens of millions of dollars in spending in the city, and get to double up on events for the temporary expanded seating (imagine, you could even sell ticket packages for both events!). The BMO Phase 3 reno (retractable seating, CFL lockers) will happen along with the roof construction next winter, I expect.

Timelines are getting tight, as we all know, however...

[rdavies]

Tks to McMurph at skyscraperpage for headsup

Calgary's Ken King was on CBC Radio's The Eyeopener on April 22, 2015 (http://www.cbc.ca/video/news/audioplayer.html?clipid=2665082483)
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He stated (starting at 4:43) that the arena/stadium/fieldhouse plan will be revealed after the provincial election (May 5, 2015). (Unstated, that might include after any Flames playoff run)

It was also clear that it is going into the West Village, with multiple references to the convenience of the "overbuilt" Sunalta station.

[rdavies]

Tks to Airboy at skyscraperpage for headsup

SMS Equipment Stadium at Fort McMurray capacity 5000 expanding to 15,000 for CFL games

http://i61.tinypic.com/no64xg.jpg

http://i61.tinypic.com/ckodx.jpg

http://i60.tinypic.com/9ifg9k.jpg

[Deerkeeper]

Boy, wouldn't it be nice to see a few more stadiums like around this country. I'm thinking of a few universities something like that would look good in. Of course, the ability to fill them on a regular basis would be nice as well.

[T-Bone]

Argos fans celebrating the move to BMO Field in Saskatchewan?: Fire breaks out at new Mosaic stadium site in Regina (http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/saskatchewan/fire-breaks-out-at-new-mosaic-stadium-site-in-regina-1.3080319)

[BATKINSON001]

Argos fans celebrating the move to BMO Field in Saskatchewan?: Fire breaks out at new Mosaic stadium site in Regina (http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/saskatchewan/fire-breaks-out-at-new-mosaic-stadium-site-in-regina-1.3080319)

probably bombers fans getting a jump on things lol

[Fumblitis]

The fire was a minor setback.

http://www.620ckrm.com/ckrm-on-air/ckrm-local-news/9931-a-look-inside-the-new-mosaic-stadium

Will be ready August 2016. For football and soccer. :hi:

[matthew]

How right I think you are.

[T-Bone]

http://youtu.be/xcwJt4bcnXs

[R.J]

Calgary should be announcing their new Arena/Fieldhouse/Stadium complex very shortly.
http://www.calgarysun.com/2015/08/12/flames-calgarynext-project-to-be-unveiled

[shayman]

Oakland Coliseum is the last stadium shared by NFL and MLB teams. Here's an interesting video showing the conversion from baseball to football.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RVNny_S_1gs

They can do it in 20 hours - including installing new sod where the pitcher's mound was. A fascinating contrast to the process at Skydome, which you'd think would be much faster, given that Skydome's seats magically roll back and forth and you don't need to bring in a crane.

[AngeloV]

Oakland Coliseum is the last stadium shared by NFL and MLB teams. Here's an interesting video showing the conversion from baseball to football.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RVNny_S_1gs

They can do it in 20 hours - including installing new sod where the pitcher's mound was. A fascinating contrast to the process at Skydome, which you'd think would be much faster, given that Skydome's seats magically roll back and forth and you don't need to bring in a crane.

More proof that the 36 hour claim is a bunch of BS.

[R.J]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">RT .<a href="https://twitter.com/SunDaveDormer">@SunDaveDormer</a> Source says <a href="https://twitter.com/NHLFlames">@NHLFlames</a> will ask for $200M from the city to build fieldhouse, team will finance arena <a href="https://twitter.com/CalgaryNext">@CalgaryNext</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CFL?src=hash">#CFL</a></p>&mdash; CFL News (@CFL_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/CFL_News/status/631565572870946816">August 12, 2015</a></blockquote>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">MT .<a href="https://twitter.com/SunDaveDormer">@SunDaveDormer</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/NHLFlames">@NHLFlames</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CalgaryNext">@CalgaryNext</a> Yes, source said fieldhouse will be open to public when not used by Stampeders. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CFL?src=hash">#CFL</a></p>&mdash; CFL News (@CFL_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/CFL_News/status/631565851716620289">August 12, 2015</a></blockquote>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">RT .<a href="https://twitter.com/SunDaveDormer">@SunDaveDormer</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Fan960Steinberg">@Fan960Steinberg</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CalgaryNext">@CalgaryNext</a> It&#39;s a multi-use building, seats will collapse so it can be reconfigured for several sports</p>&mdash; CFL News (@CFL_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/CFL_News/status/631566033128656896">August 12, 2015</a></blockquote>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">RT .<a href="https://twitter.com/SunDaveDormer">@SunDaveDormer</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/brad2332">@brad2332</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SUNMitchell">@SUNMitchell</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/NHLFlames">@NHLFlames</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CalgaryNext">@CalgaryNext</a> a stadium has 1 use, fieldhouse has multiple uses. It&#39;s semantics really.</p>&mdash; CFL News (@CFL_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/CFL_News/status/631566194206711808">August 12, 2015</a></blockquote>
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[R.J]

A lot of info pouring out about the stamps and flames new facilities. There will also be a live stream of the event.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Separate source says Stampeders were briefed yesterday and we're pleased by project. Stadium and Fieldhouse will be attached.</p>&mdash; News Talk 770 Stamps (@Newstalkstamps) <a href="https://twitter.com/Newstalkstamps/status/633709470430949376">August 18, 2015</a></blockquote>
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http://calgaryherald.com/sports/hockey/nhl/calgary-flames/flames-reveal-details-of-900m-downtown-arena-stadium-plan
http://www.660news.com/2015/08/18/live-blog-calgarynext-unveiled-as-season-ticket-holders-post-pictures-of-plans/
http://www.calgarysun.com/2015/08/18/calgary-flames-to-unveil-calgarynext-arena-project


The facility would house 18,000 for hockey games and 30,000 for CFL games. That could expand to as many as 50,000 for special events.
I'm personally very happy about this part, as there were rumblings that the Stamps new facility would be 40,000 permanent seats, which IMO would have been a massive mistake. 30k, with a lounge area (similar to the Ticats), private suites and other types of premium seating (like the Cats endzone patios) is the way to go IMHO.

[AngeloV]

I'm personally very happy about this part, as there were rumblings that the Stamps new facility would be 40,000 permanent seats, which IMO would have been a massive mistake. 30k, with a lounge area (similar to the Ticats), private suites and other types of premium seating (like the Cats endzone patios) is the way to go IMHO.

Absolutely the way to go. Nothing is more of a bummer than going to a game and seeing lots of empty seats. I really think it has a negative impact on future attendance.

[R.J]

The fieldhouse would include retractable stands. As long as the track is covered up and the fans are relatively close to the action with proper seating angles, it should work.
http://www.calgarynext.com/multisport-fieldhouse-stadium.php
http://www.calgarynext.com/img/content/fieldhouse.jpg
http://www.calgarynext.com/img/content/Stadium.jpg
http://www.calgarynext.com/img/content/events-centre.jpg

http://www.calgarysun.com/2015/08/18/calgary-flames-to-unveil-calgarynext-arena-project
Capacity for arena/events centre should theoretically be around 18,000-20,000

Funny thing about this whole situation is that it's not an official launch, just the Flames Group showing people what they would like to do.

[Gill The Thrill]

Yuck..Yuck...an indoor football stadium. I personally think it's ugly and hope it doesn't get off the ground. Could they not do something like Investors Field in Winnipeg. That's a really nice looking stadium that maintains the integrity of the game and its' natural elements while providing fans with an enclosed roof above their heads for some comfort. That's the best of both worlds. You're in a stadium...what's wrong with showing up in a coat and keeping it on?...it's a football game, not a banquet. Football is meant to be played outdoors with a fall breeze and weather being taken into consideration.

[R.J]

New Mosaic Stadium - football operations
https://amp.twimg.com/v/1b60bf95-bfb8-43ed-9c72-3cf2223a761a

[Golden Fleece]

New Mosaic Stadium - football operations
https://amp.twimg.com/v/1b60bf95-bfb8-43ed-9c72-3cf2223a761a Their new training area and locker room looks crazy. Are there any teams in the CFL that will have a football operations area even close to Saskatchewan's?

[R.J]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Stopped by <a href="https://twitter.com/YQRstadium">@YQRstadium</a> yesterday and what a difference 18 months makes <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FlashbackFriday?src=hash">#FlashbackFriday</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/yqr?src=hash">#yqr</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Riders?src=hash">#Riders</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/yqrstadium?src=hash">#yqrstadium</a> <a href="https://t.co/CU1mfplW1e">pic.twitter.com/CU1mfplW1e</a></p>&mdash; Adrian Halter (@adrianhalter) <a href="https://twitter.com/adrianhalter/status/708364938390056960">March 11, 2016</a></blockquote>
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[Will]

"What a difference 18 months makes"

What did the tweeter expect there to still be an empty hole?

[rdavies]

Edmonton's is NFL quality, Winnipeg is good, Hamilton is supposed to be pretty good. Copeland said the Argos would have the best dressing room in the CFL. I wonder if he saw the Regina video, but he must know what they have in Edmonton.

[R.J]

http://www.660news.com/2016/03/19/calgary-mega-projects-on-the-line-as-the-city-waits-for-funding-announcements/

[R.J]

http://www.stampeders.com/2016/03/18/calgarynext/

[R.J]

Ouch!
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/calgary/calgarynext-city-report-torpedoes-project-1.3545509

[ArgoRavi]

Ouch!
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/calgary/calgarynext-city-report-torpedoes-project-1.3545509

There is no justification for spending that amount of taxpayer money on professional sports facilities.

[R.J]

More seating for Ottawa's TD Place Stadium ?

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Work crew removing what was once grass-covered hill at west end of field at TD Place stadium. More seating? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/sports?src=hash">#sports</a> <a href="https://t.co/lJLn9UbfMl">pic.twitter.com/lJLn9UbfMl</a></p>&mdash; Gord Holder (@HolderGord) <a href="https://twitter.com/HolderGord/status/723146431582838784">April 21, 2016</a></blockquote>
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[R.J]

So it would seem the Redblacks are adding a patio in the west end-zone.
http://ottawacitizen.com/sports/football/cfl/redblacks-add-experience-zone-to-td-place


The steep grass area just past the west end-zone of the football field at TD Place stadium was gone Thursday.

Randy Burgess, vice-president of communications and fan experience for Ottawa Sports & Entertainment Group, said it would be replaced by a new fan “experience zone” adding 100-150 spots to the 24,000-seat capacity of the stadium.

Besides high-top tables on a platform slightly above ground level, the new area will include a middle layer of display space and a drink rail beside the nearby walkway, similar to one outside the east end-zone. Access will require game tickets specifically for that area.

The grass hill could never have been safely used for fan seating because of its severe pitch, Burgess said.

It might be possible to put some temporary seating in the “experience zone” in the likely event Ottawa is awarded the right to play host to the 2017 Grey Cup game by the Canadian Football League, but Burgess said Thursday “it’s not the same as it is in the east end. You can go as high as you want in the east end, not in the west.”

[jerrym]

There is no justification for spending that amount of taxpayer money on professional sports facilities.

This will only stop when billionaires and government get the message that the public won't accept it as was the case when in 2000 cabinet minister John Manley in the Chretien government proposed subsidizing the NHL.


Dubbed the Great Canadian Puck-Off by one group, the clamour of protest against a federal plan to subsidize Canadian National Hockey League teams continued yesterday unabated, perhaps even heating up. ...
He said Ottawa would pay up to $3-million annually to each of Canada's six NHL teams to help keep them competitive. ...
Winnipeg Liberal MP Reg Alcock's office has received more than 220 negative calls on the hockey bailout, more than it has on other issues, including gun control and the government's decision to retain the goods and services tax. ...
On radio and television phone-in shows, they expressed anger that the government would give handouts to professional hockey teams at a time when hospitals and other social services are strapped for money. One straw poll taken by a television network in the province showed that 96 per cent of callers were opposed to the plan. Newspaper headlines, editorials and many letters to the editor slammed the scheme.



http://www.theglobeandmail.com/sports/rubber-flies-over-nhl-subsidy/article1036298/

[jerrym]

A look at all the stadiums.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">When you play the Game of Rouges, you win or you die.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ticats?src=hash">#Ticats</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GameOfThrones?src=hash">#GameOfThrones</a><a href="https://t.co/cd2tbVUHIy">https://t.co/cd2tbVUHIy</a></p>&mdash; Hamilton Tiger-Cats (@Ticats) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ticats/status/724312837280034816">April 24, 2016</a></blockquote> <script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[R.J]

http://www.ottawaredblacks.com/west-endzone-club/
http://d3ham790trbkqy.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2016/04/west-end-zone-banner.jpg

[R.J]

http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/flames-new-arena-long-drawn-process/

Personally I think Stadium/Arena complex or just the arena should go in the Currie Barracks. Another good scenario IMO could be if the Flames build an arena and mixed used complex in the West Village and a Stadium/Fieldhouse in the Stampede Grounds. I recall reading a report early where the City was looking into building the fieldhouse in Foothills park, which is right next to McMahon stadium. With deals like this - I think maximum revenue for the taxpayers should be at the forefront and I've always liked the idea of using mixed use arenas and complexes to maximize potential. Interesting that Rogers Place in Edmonton has helped spur over $2 Billion in development - could be a boon for Calgary and CSEC to look at when trying to figure out the best locations.

[R.J]

I had a feeling Tim Hortons Field's issues would eventually end up in court - just like Investors Group Field has.
http://www.thespec.com/news-story/6519965-tim-hortons-field-delays-finally-end-up-in-court/

[AngeloV]

I had a feeling Tim Hortons Field's issues would eventually end up in court - just like Investors Group Field has.
http://www.thespec.com/news-story/6519965-tim-hortons-field-delays-finally-end-up-in-court/

Great, another opportunity for Lawyers to line their pockets.

:rolleyes:

[R.J]

Ken King discussing CalgaryNext
http://www.sportsnet.ca/960/the-big-show/ken-king-calgarynext/

Cool gif found over on CalgaryNext website; showing seating capacities.
http://calgarynext.com/img/content/CalgaryNEXT-Configuration-2016.gif

[rdavies]

BMO Field ready for Toronto FC home opener with new canopy, lights and sound system (http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/sports/bmo-field-ready-for-toronto-fc-home-opener-with-new-canopy-lights-and-sound-system-377980361.html)
Neil Davidson, The Canadian Press 05/3/2016

TORONTO - Thanks to the co-operation of Mother Nature and a lot of hard labour, BMO Field will be open for business as planned Saturday.

A new canopy, sound and lighting system, the final parts of a $150-million two-year renovation, will greet a sellout crowd of 30,000 at Toronto FC's long-awaited home opener against FC Dallas.

Stage 1, which took place after the 2014 MLS season, saw a 8,400-seat second tier as well additional washrooms and concessions added to the east stand. A new video board was installed while the east and west stands were linked by a concourse above the south stand. Luxury dining/drinking options were also added.

Stage 2 was more heavy lifting. Big cranes, heavy roof panels. Lots of steel and tractor-trailers.

"The complexity of the job was much more heavy construction than it was finishing-type construction," said Bob Hunter, chief project development officer for Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment.

A mild winter has meant the project is finishing on schedule, save the final touches to a second elevator in the west stand. But Hunter says that too is nearing completion.

More work is needed on the Argonauts' dressing room but Hunter says it will be done ahead of the CFL team's opening pre-season game June 11.

Hunter says recent rain slowed installation of the artificial turf in the endzones because drier conditions are needed to lay the surface immediately below the turf. The new grass field is down, however, and being regularly fed by giant growlights.

The stadium lights have been tested in the evening. Toronto FC will likely practise at BMO on Thursday evening to get accustomed to them.

While the new canopy, lights and sound will no doubt enhance the stadium experience, Hunter says TFC fans will see a lot of familiar sights. One change will come in the north end which will be more festive thanks to some 500 fans willing to watch the game standing in a patio zone.

There will be movable rows of seats at both ends to cover the CFL endzones.

It's worth noting that MLSE calls the cover atop the east, west and south stands a canopy rather than a roof. And because of structural demands, there are gaps between the canopy and the top of the stands. Just how much cover the canopy will provide will likely hinge on the nature of the rain and wind and where you are seated.

There is a 40 per cent chance of precipitation Saturday so fans will likely soon find out what it all means.

"Each experience, as we go through it, will define to people what they should and shouldn't be expecting," said Hunter.

Still any cover will be welcome at the lakefront stadium.

As at last season's home opener, Saturday's crowd will include the PCL workers who rebuilt the stadium.

BMO Field, whose construction was linked to the 2007 FIFA U-17 World Cup and getting an MLS expansion team, was originally built on a shoestring budget of $62.9 million.

Capacity will be just under 27,000 for the Argonauts, whose regular-season home opener is June 23. BMO Field should be able to accommodate 35,000 to 38,000 for the Grey Cup and Winter Classic with the addition of temporary stands.

[rdavies]

Ryan Whitacre Twitter (https://twitter.com/ryanwhitacre/media)

http://i65.tinypic.com/nd25xi.jpg

http://i66.tinypic.com/jaj402.jpg

http://i66.tinypic.com/dcdkk2.jpg

http://i67.tinypic.com/1ce8j.jpg

Tks to Tomas Makacek Twitter

http://i67.tinypic.com/ix9w9g.jpg
(https://twitter.com/TomasMakacek)

[BATKINSON001]

Those are awesome.

[Deerkeeper]

Those are awesome.It would look even better with football markings on the field.

[rdavies]

The new BMO Field culmination of Tim Leiweke's dream (http://www.torontosun.com/2016/05/04/the-new-bmo-field-culmination-of-tim-leiwekes-dream)
Toronto FC opens its home slate on Saturday vs. FC Dallas
Kurtis Larson, Toronto Sun May 04, 2016

Supporters were skeptical of Tim Leiweke’s dream.

The ex-MLSE CEO was unabashed about turning Toronto FC into something resembling respectability.

On Saturday — three years after Leiweke asked fans to “dream big” — his vision will be on full display when TFC hosts FC Dallas at the newly renovated, 30,000-seat BMO Field.

The anti-MLSE pessimists have gone quiet since MLSE announced said renovations, their flames and pitchforks set aside.

After all, this weekend, with a capacity crowd on hand, it will be impossible to ignore the positive impact MLSE’s investment has had on Toronto FC and the city.

Reaching this point was arduous to say the least. “Financial suicide,” even, according to Leiweke.

In retrospect, though, MLSE couldn’t have afforded to not embark on a three-year journey that culminated with TFC’s early-season competency — all of which had, in many ways, to do with expanding BMO Field.

Michael Bradley, Jozy Altidore and Sebastian Giovinco, arguably the best player in MLS history, wouldn’t be here without stadium upgrades.

The estimated increase in revenue was needed to justify spending a truckload of cash to lure the trio to Toronto.

Whether it works remains to be seen. The Reds have to host and win playoff games in order to show marked improvement.

That’s why Leiweke’s dream, MLSE’s vision, largely hinges on this campaign — the principle reason why Saturday’s match is so anticipated.

This weekend is the culmination of a process that began with a culture shift within the organization. As was the case in 2011 and 2012, Toronto FC is no longer an entity whose fans have disdain for ownership.

Municipal and provincial politics were played before MLSE’s board had an epiphany: “Let’s treat Toronto FC with respect and dignity.” Disillusioned fans needed new reasons to dream.

Getting the anti-Argonauts crowd to remove their tin-foil hats is an ongoing process that will diminish further when supporters enter BMO on Saturday.

The stadium’s breathtaking canopy will kill off all remaining pessimism associated with sharing a venue with the Canadian Football League.

Argos and CFL signage will be limited to a few exterior elements on Major League Soccer game days — well worth Toronto FC’s transformation from 2013 lightweight to big spender in 2016.

For fans who haven’t been to BMO Field since last October, prepare to feel like you’re entering a new stadium for the first time since TFC’s inaugural season.

“When we built BMO Field in 2007, we knew we’d have to reinvest over time, but never thought we’d be able to convince our owners to make the type of long-term investment that they have,” said Bob Hunter, MLSE’s chief project development officer.

“It’s a whole new stadium. We paid $62 million back in 2007. With the Argonauts, we’re reinvesting almost $150 million.”

Throw in the roughly $100 million in contracts doled out to three DPs and MLSE has invested around a quarter-billion dollars in TFC players and facilities.

“Everyone was motivated,” Hunter added during a guided tour with the Sun on Wednesday afternoon. “The City of Toronto was motivated because they want to see the big events. The City and province were motivated because they wanted to find a long-term solution for the Argos. Everyone saw that the potential for bigger and larger events, which have the potential for a big economic impact for Toronto, could only be achieved by doing that level of investment.”

In the end, the only arguments against transforming BMO Field from erector-set stadium into big-time soccer stadium come from original TFC supporters who would rather see their club stay niche.

In truth, without Leiweke’s dream, the excitement ahead of Saturday’s home opener would be nowhere close to where it is.

LEIWEKE KEEPING TABS ON TFC’S HOME OPENER

On the seventh day, Tim Leiweke rested. Somewhere.

The ex-MLSE CEO isn’t in town to see the official unveiling of the stadium he pushed for.

The Toronto Sun did, however, reach him by email.

“I am very proud of the development team and the commitment to fight through all the obstacles to get this done,” Leiweke told the Sun. “Had a couple of dozen reasons why people thought this was a bad idea.”

The main one being the preservation of TFC’s pitch.

Concerns won’t be put to bed until after there’s proof the Argonauts won’t negatively impact TFC’s all-grass field.

“Toronto has one of the best homes in all of MLS now,” Leiweke added. “They are for real and I couldn’t be happier for MLSE, the owners, the team and the fans.”

YOUR BMO QUESTIONS ANSWERED

1) Will BMO Field be 100% completed by Saturday’s TFC opener?

No. Close, though. A pair of end suites on the west side of the stadium are still under renovation. Some areas atop the roof are also still being completed. Furthermore, the Argos’ dressing room is still under renovation ahead of the CFL season.

2) Why does the north end look so empty?

It’s going to remain fairly empty. TFC is selling standing-room-only tickets where the CFL endzone will be. Plastic squares have been laid over top of the Argos’ artificial turf end zone. Truth be told, MLSE ran out of time to improve the north end. They’ll likely add party decks in the coming seasons and more amenities. There are also two sets of temporary premium seats near the corner flags.

3) The south-end roof, why is it so darn high?

To accommodate 8,000 temporary seats that will be installed for Grey Cups, MLS Cups, World Cups and outdoor hockey games. If you sit in the south end, the canopy might not do much for you if it rains. But, hey, it looks cool.

4) How is the grass?

It was installed two weeks ago. We walked on it Wednesday afternoon. It felt fine. Groundskeepers appear to have grow lights operating on it around the clock. TFC will train on it for the first time Thursday night.

5) How much Argos signage will there be?

Not much on MLS game days. An area beneath Section 104 — where the Argos dressing room is housed — is painted blue. Also, an Argos banner will sit atop the northwest super column, facing the Gardiner Expressway. While it won’t happen this season, Argos signage might also adorn the southeast corner of the stadium, facing the south parking lot.

6) Does the canopy roof go all the way to the touch line?

No. It covers all “fixed” seats on all sides.

7) What don’t you like about it, Larson?

The north end will look empty at times this year, a poor visual for TV. We think MLSE should strive to make the north end look akin to what the Blue Jays have done in centre field. Needs to be a fun atmosphere. We’ll have to wait and see what they do with it next season.

8) Will south-end seating change at all due to the CFL end zone?

No. I’m told the first six rows of seats will be removable, but will be within an inch of original placement prior to renovations.

[rdavies]

Dave Abel/Toronto Sun (http://www.torontosun.com/2016/05/04/the-new-bmo-field-culmination-of-tim-leiwekes-dream)

http://i68.tinypic.com/11gsitd.jpg

http://i64.tinypic.com/2ujjgnq.jpg

http://i67.tinypic.com/2d8m5gg.jpg

http://i66.tinypic.com/28w0aoh.jpg

[rdavies]

Tks to Tomas Makacek Twitter
(https://twitter.com/TomasMakacek)
http://i66.tinypic.com/uswzq.jpg

http://i66.tinypic.com/w2jedd.jpg

Unknown source

http://i67.tinypic.com/i2lzqp.jpg

[R.J]

Just a suggestion rdavies, but the BMO pics and information are IMO much better suited in the double blue forum.

[R.J]

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/hamilton/news/province-files-notice-of-legal-action-over-tim-hortons-field-stadium-1.3573538

I think it'll be years before this and Winnipeg's stadium situation get settled.

[rdavies]

There's a small rumour (totally unsubstantiated) that the Rider's new artificial turf will have inlaid lines making the transition to other events either non existent or much more difficult. Don't have any proof as of this point.

As I stated before, concerning the TFC fan's unwillingness to share BMO, I would be just as outraged if the CFL or Riders did something like this to lessen the eventuality of a local CPL soccer team or my beloved CWNT/CMNT playing there in what should be the Canadian stadium crown jewel.

Too early to get upset as there is no real news.

[R.J]

https://player.vimeo.com/video/165757670

Cool drone video showing New Mosaic Stadium then ending with Old Mosaic.

[R.J]

Come on Halifax figure out how to make it happen.
http://www.metronews.ca/news/halifax/2016/05/18/businessman-floats-idea-of-private-funds-to-build-stadium.html

[Mightygoose]

Texas Rangers looking at new retractable roof stadium.

http://mlb.nbcsports.com/2016/05/20/texas-rangers-to-get-a-new-retractable-roof-ballpark/

Still to be in Arlington but their current park opened in 1994. First Atlanta and now this? Sad that the 90s era stadiums are already starting to be replaced.

[ArgoZ]

Texas Rangers looking at new retractable roof stadium.

http://mlb.nbcsports.com/2016/05/20/texas-rangers-to-get-a-new-retractable-roof-ballpark/

Still to be in Arlington but their current park opened in 1994. First Atlanta and now this? Sad that the 90s era stadiums are already starting to be replaced.

I went to see a Jays game there a few years ago. Still a viable stadium, with great sidelines, wide concourses, 2' hot dogs, and etc. Had a great time, but the heat was almost unbearable. Absolutely no shade, and that Texas sun is scorching. They really only need a roof, but probably more cost effective to build new.

[jerrym]

Regina is commemorating the final season at Mosaic Stadium (aka Taylor Field). Roughrider fans in the article viewing its end are highly emotional about their memories. So are, I am sure, the fans and players of other CFL teams, except its not the same set of emotions and memories, considering what often happened to the opposition playing there.




https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1qzqREQ36W8/V0MI67SoN-I/AAAAAAABH5s/025InV27RiY_siS20PJEU2SQlVKOXtYrQCLcB/s640/IMG_6842.JPG (https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1qzqREQ36W8/V0MI67SoN-I/AAAAAAABH5s/025InV27RiY_siS20PJEU2SQlVKOXtYrQCLcB/s1600/IMG_6842.JPG)



Over the weekend the City of Regina kicked off the Farewell Season at Mosaic Stadium with day-long events around the facility on Saturday.
Cindy Kobayashi was the MC for Saturday's official kickoff and we heard from Elder Norma Jean Byrd, His Worship Mayor Michael Fougere and City Councillor John Findora. They all told their favourite memories from the iconic stadium, which heads into its final season in 2016.

Taylor Field - renamed Mosaic Stadium in 2005 - will be torn down following the Saskatchewan Roughriders' move into New Mosaic Stadium across the street in 2017.

The next seven months promise to be extremely emotional for all of us whose best memories come from the Grand Ol' Lady (nicknamed by legendary sportswriter Bob Hughes).
"It's wonderful to see the sea of green here and have you all come down and think of all the memories you have from here and those that will be made here this season," Mayor Fougere told the crowd. "Because after this year, we'll be in the brand new stadium across the way.

"There are very few structures in our city that give the iconic view as the stadium here.

http://www.rodpedersen.com

[Argoknot]

Out with the old and in with the new May 24/2016


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OsLSsIg5gGI

[R.J]

New Mosaic looks impressive; it will most definitely help the Riders get some top notch players.

[R.J]

http://thestarphoenix.com/news/local-news/moso-2016-to-include-riders-tech-wizardry

New Mosaic is going to be impressive. I like the idea of pre-loading cash to tickets for concessions and such.

[T-Bone]

New Mosaic is going to be impressive. I like the idea of pre-loading cash to tickets for concessions and such. (http://thestarphoenix.com/news/local-news/moso-2016-to-include-riders-tech-wizardry)
I have to say it looks like it's going to be the nicest in the league. I wasn't keen on pre-loading cash to my Blue Jays card but after trying it I have to say it makes things super convient. I would love to see the same type of system at TFC/Argos games.

[rdavies]

New McMahon? CFL commissioner would love to chat (http://calgarysun.com/sports/football/cfl/calgary-stampeders/new-mcmahon-cfl-commish-would-love-to-chat)
Daniel Austin Calgary Sun January 11, 2018

https://i.imgur.com/cZFQBTH.png

The Calgary Stampeders decided to have a lock out this week at McMahon stadium in preparation for Saturdays game against the Saskatchewan Roughriders in Calgary, Alta., on Tuesday, July 18, 2017. Darren Makowichuk Postmedia Calgary

BANFF – Randy Ambrosie would clearly love to see the Calgary Stampeders playing in a new stadium.

But the CFL commissioner isn’t going to threaten to move the team. He’s not going to try to influence local elections, and he’s not going to call Calgary’s mayor names.

If anyone wants to sit down and chat about the pros and cons of building a new stadium, though, he’d love to do so.

“Just give me the name of the person I need to go and see, and I’ll happily show up on their doorstep and make a pitch for why Calgary would be well-served (by a new stadium),” Ambrosie said Wednesday from the CFL’s annual GM meetings in Banff.

The CFL has seen a sudden rush of new stadiums and renovations to old facilities in recent years.

The B.C. Lions, the Saskatchewan Roughriders, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, the Toronto Argonauts and the Ottawa Redblacks have all seen either major renovations to their stadiums or have built new homes entirely, often in conjunction with local governments.

The Stampeders, though, are still playing in good old McMahon Stadium, built in 1961 and by far the most beat-up building in the league.

Getting a new facility has largely taken a backseat to ownership’s efforts to get a new arena built for the Calgary Flames, but Ambrosie clearly believes the city would benefit by looking at its options for a new stadium, as well.

“I believe putting a new stadium in that city is not just about the CFL. It is a lot about the CFL, but there’s a lot of great amateur football being played there,” Ambrosie said. “There’s the Dinos. There’s the great junior football team (the Colts). There’s an opportunity to attract national and international events. Development in our cities and the ability of our cities to attract events is a critical part of how these cities function, and I think it’s time for Calgary to come up with a solution for a new stadium.”

[rdavies]

Tory supports bid to co-host 2026 FIFA World Cup (https://www.cp24.com/news/tory-supports-bid-to-co-host-2026-fifa-world-cup-1.3769766)
Codi Wilson, CP24.com January 22, 2018

Mayor John Tory says he wants Toronto to bid to co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

A staff report (http://app.toronto.ca/tmmis/viewAgendaItemHistory.do?item=2018.EX30.14), which will be discussed by the city's executive committee at a meeting later this week, recommends that city council ask the federal and provincial government to agree to provide financial support to Toronto to host the international sporting competition.

The report says national soccer associations in Canada, the U.S., and Mexico are leading a joint bid to host the World Cup in North American cities.

“Canada would automatically qualify for the tournament by virtue of being a host nation. Based on current discussions, Canada and Mexico would host 10 games each, with the remainder being played in the United States. The only other country bidding to host the Cup is Morocco,” the staff report read.

“Toronto has been named as one of four Canadian host city candidates, along with Vancouver, Edmonton and Montreal. 28 other candidate cities in Mexico and the United States are also being considered. It is anticipated that Toronto would host 3-5 games if the bid is successful, and if Toronto is selected by United Bid Committee and Fédération Internationale de Football Association as a host city.”

According to the staff report, the host nation will be named in June 2018 and individual host cities will be chosen in 2021.

“Hosting the FIFA World Cup is a once in a generation opportunity to showcase Toronto to the world,” Mayor Tory said in a news release issued Monday.

“Coming off the success of the Pan Am/Parapan Am Games and the Invictus Games, it is clear that Toronto and Torontonians are ready to be one of the host cities for this iconic event.”

Exhibition Place’s BMO Field is being put forward as the stadium that would be used for the event and city staff says the price tag is estimated to be between $30 million to $45 million to co-host the competition.

The costs, according to staff, would be shared between the city and the provincial and federal governments.

"It’s great because it gives us a chance to be part of the greatest sports show on earth but at a very low cost because this is a joint bid between Canada, the U.S., and Mexico," Tory told CP24 on Monday morning.

"For a few games, for a very modest expansion of BMO Field with the temporary seating, which we’ve done for the Grey Cup, to get World Cup games here, I think the people in Toronto would go nuts about that in a positive way and say, ‘Go for it.' So that’s what we’re going to do."

[rdavies]

First look at the first render for Halifax's new stadium

https://i.imgur.com/2gfrGm0.jpg

[rdavies]

Something interesting here. A poster at another site mentioned that the proposed new Halifax stadium looked like Avaya Stadium in San Jose.

HOK did the design for Avaya at 100 million and the prospective CFL owners said they had a California company do the design (Gensler in San Francisco) I guess they didn't have very far to look.

https://i.imgur.com/I4VOPGg.jpg

[jerrym]

Part of the success of the RedBlacks in attracting fans is the stadium's direct connection to so many other attractions.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">We love our home here <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IntheGlebe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IntheGlebe</a><br><br>Check out <a href="https://twitter.com/intheglebe?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@intheglebe</a>&#39;s NEW website! Jam-packed with the best attractions, promotions and things to do!<br><br>💻 <a href="https://t.co/zkkqayA7V6">https://t.co/zkkqayA7V6</a> <a href="https://t.co/us84lOLlpU">pic.twitter.com/us84lOLlpU</a></p>&mdash; Ottawa REDBLACKS (@REDBLACKS) <a href="https://twitter.com/REDBLACKS/status/969676463350910976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2018</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[jerrym]

The NHL is considering playing an outdoor game at the Riders' Mosaic Stadium.

https://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/regina-considered-nhl-possible-outdoor-game/