As you know, I spend a good amount of time ensuring our 192-acre Exhibition Place continuing to evolve as Toronto's outstanding Waterfront, park-like, entertainment, environmental, sports and exhibition facility.
Two years ago, with Mayor David Miller's support, I spearheaded the building of BMO Field. It is an amazing success and has done wonders for Toronto's soccer community and our image.
I am now pleased to let you know we are taking the next steps in building on this success. By replacing the current artificial turf with a natural grass field (this will allow for international players and teams to play here) and by placing the winter bubble (from November to April) of each year at Allan Lamport Stadium.
Exhibition Place Board of Governors approved the above which will see Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment Limited (MLSEL) invest $5.5 million. Toronto City Council will now consider this proposal, which I expect will be approved, at our meeting commencing Septrember 30, 2009.
As I mentioned before, this will be ALL at MLSEL cost. It will also increase the community sport time available under the bubble by an additional 1,000 hours yearly, and once we add the new field in South Etobicoke, there will be a furthe additional 2,849 community hours.
If you are interested in the details of this agreement you can access them at the following website
www.explace.on.ca/about_us/board_reports/september_2009.php
