The MLS stadium in Toronto is undergoing a $94-million renovation.
BMO Field, home to Toronto FC of Major League Soccer and other major events, began a recent first phase of renovation and expansion to the stadium that is scheduled for a May 1, 2015 completion.
“The renovation and expansion will take place over two years and in two distinct phases,” said Bob Hunter, chief facilities and live entertainment officer with Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment (MLSE). “Phase one started on Sept.9 and will run through May 1 next year, while phase two will start in September 2015 and run through May 1, 2016.”
The first phase includes adding 8,400 seats with additional washrooms and concession stands and will bring the stadium capacity to 30,000. Two new private clubs will be added along with a new full-service kitchen for restaurants, suites and clubs. Twelve new executive suites are part of the addition along with two party suites and a loge box.
The second phase of renovations will include a full-size canopy covering all seats with the exception of the North grandstand and a new sound and lighting system. A possible third phase has also been factored in that would enable BMO Field to accommodate a Canadian Football League field if required.
“The BMO Field renovation project is a great example of what can be accomplished when we work together with a strong community partner like MLSE,” said Deputy Mayor Norm Kelly in a released statement. “The improved stadium will become an incredible sport destination that will be enjoyed by fans from across Toronto and beyond.”
The stadium opened in April 2007 and in 2010 became the first venue outside of the United States to host the Major League Soccer Cup. The venue is also home to the Canadian men’s national soccer team.
The two-phase renovation and expansion will be complete in May 2016.
The total budget for the project is almost $94 million, with MLSE putting in about $85 million and the City of Toronto putting in the other $9 million.
“The venue is eight years old and the team is still drawing very well, but we believe the demand is there for more seats and more premium areas for entertainment,” Hunter said. “We did not build enough premium areas or suites in the original building.”
“An expanded and improved BMO Field will be of great benefit to Exhibition Place and all of Toronto,” added Councillor Mark Grimes, chair of the Exhibition Place board of governors in a statement. “This is a project that will generate millions of dollars in economic impact over the years with increased business and tourism in the area. We’re thankful for all of those who worked together to make it a reality.”
ICON Venue Group will oversee the design and construction of the project, while Gensler is the architect of record and will design the stadium renovations. The stadium construction is run by locally based PCL Construction.
The venue will not be shut down during the project. As far as how the work impacts games played by Toronto FC, Hunter said that the home team’s venue is only slightly altered.
“The soccer team will not play a home game in the next two years until May 1 each year, which is about six weeks after the season starts,” he said.
Meanwhile, there is plenty of excitement now that groundbreaking has taken place and the work has begun.
“There will be more amenities, services, points of sale and washrooms for the general public, and the addition of the canopy is beneficial to all in inclement weather,” Hunter said.
Interviewed for this article: Bob Hunter, (416) 815-5738