Brantford approves new $152M sports, entertainment centre, signs long-term Bulldogs lease

Brantford City Council has officially approved the design and construction of the city’s new Sports and Entertainment Centre (SEC). 

Yesterday, the City and the Brantford Bulldogs finalized and formally signed a landmark 15-year lease extending up to 40 years.

In a release, the City said the new SEC will be a state-of-the-art venue with seating for 5,235 spectators.

It will be designed to host Ontario Hockey League hockey, concerts, family shows, community celebrations, trade shows, and a wide variety of major events.

Positioned prominently on Market Street with a new civic plaza that links it to the existing Civic Centre, the facility will become a key focal point for public gatherings and a new anchor for the ongoing renewal of the downtown.

Independent analysis conducted for the City confirms the SEC will provide substantial economic benefits during both construction and future operations.

READ MORE: Brantford city council approves proposal for new sports, entertainment centre

The release also said construction activity alone is projected to generate approximately $261 million in economic impact; create 1,260 full time jobs; contribute $90 million in employment income and produce nearly $25 million in federal and provincial tax revenues.

The city projects annual operations will drive an estimated $13.2 million in local spending, support 95 full time equivalent jobs, and contribute $7.6 million to the economy.

Over a period of ten years, the combined economic impact is projected to reach more than $145 million in spending and more than $83 million in contributions to the economy.

The $152-million project will be funded through dedicated revenue sources tied to the facility, including a $140-million municipal debenture supported by a reserve fund.

This reserve will draw from the municipal accommodation tax, casino revenue reallocation, property sales, naming rights, sponsorships, operator contributions, fundraising, and increased commercial property taxes from downtown development.

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