Call it the first political kickoff of Barrie’s stadium debate.
Days after the city unveiled plans for a $26-million downtown sports stadium, Ward 2 council candidates are weighing in on a project that could reshape the city’s core and directly impact the ward.
The soccer-specific stadium is planned for the former Barrie Central Collegiate site and will seat 3,500 spectators initially, with room to expand to 6,500. The venue could accommodate up to 8,500 people for concerts and community events.
The project is a partnership between the City of Barrie, Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment, MLS NEXT Pro and the Barrie Stadium Group. The city will contribute $8 million, while MLSE and the Barrie Stadium Group will each invest about $9 million.
Incumbent Coun. Craig Nixon, who is seeking a second term, said the stadium will add new energy to downtown Barrie while building on the site’s sporting history.
“This stadium will be a huge part of revitalizing our downtown, especially the western portion,” he said.
“The stadium will attract thousands of people to the area on a regular basis and will result in many new opportunities for those who will choose to invest in new businesses within walking distance.”
Nixon said the former Barrie Central property is an ideal location because of its long connection to sports.
“The location has been a focal point in our city for sporting events for close to 100 years,” he said.
“Central Collegiate’s Red Storey Field hosted high school and amateur football and track and field events from 1843 until 2016 and the Dunlop Street arena was home from 1934 to 2007 to many Barrie minor league teams as well as the 1951 and 1953 Memorial Cup champion Barrie Flyers.”
Candidate Shanicka Edwards also supports the project, saying it aligns with her goal of creating a stronger downtown community.
“I believe sports builds community,” she said.
“An important part of my mission as councillor is to create a sense of community in our downtown, and a new stadium is exactly the type of investment our growing city needs, so I’m excited about it.”
Edwards said the stadium’s impact could extend beyond soccer.
“The biggest opportunity is the positive impact it will have beyond sports,” she said.
“A stadium will bring more people into the downtown throughout the year, increasing community involvement, attracting private investment, and supporting local businesses.”
She said concerns around operations and neighbourhood impacts must also be addressed. “It’s important to acknowledge the concerns of longevity and nearby residents,” Edwards said.
Questions still needing answers
“I’m interested in learning whether there will be a roof or dome addition in order to continue use during the winter months and to protect our investment,” Edwards said. “Parking, traffic congestion, and noise must be carefully planned for from the outset.”
Tracy Strohm, another Ward 2 candidate, said redeveloping the former Barrie Central site represents a major opportunity for the city and downtown.
“My initial reaction to having the Barrie Central property developed is what a great opportunity for the city and especially the downtown,” she said.
Strohm said she has heard concerns from residents about potential noise impacts but believes they can be managed.
“I have received calls from residents with noise concerns. With modern sound technology this concern can be minimized.”
Candidate Ajmal Noushahi said the stadium could become an economic driver for Barrie if successful.
“I welcome the announcement of the new soccer stadium for Barrie,” he said.
“In my opinion, this investment has the potential to bring more jobs, attract visitors, create new business opportunities, and contribute to the long-term growth of our city.”
Noushahi, too, believes residents deserve answers on several issues before construction begins.
“There are also important questions that deserve careful consideration,” he said.
“How will increased traffic, parking demands, noise, and large crowds be managed? What happens if attendance is lower than expected? Is this the best long-term investment for Barrie, and how will success be measured?”
The stadium is expected to host professional soccer, community sports, concerts and festivals. The city estimates it will generate $64 million in annual economic activity.
Ward 2 voters will elect their next councillor on Oct. 26.
