8 CFL Stadiums could be replaced, refurbished in coming years


A news conference was held March 1, 2010 in Regina to release the results of a feasibility done on multi-purpose entertainment facility being proposed for the city’s downtown area that would be the new home of the Saskatchewan Roughriders. MLA Ken Cheveldayoff and Mayor Pat Fiacco look at the model of the proposed facility.Photograph by: Bryan Schlosser, Regina Leader-PostREGINA — There are changes ahead regarding the stadiums of Canadian Football League teams.

The stadiums for the Montreal Alouettes, B.C. Lions, Calgary Stampeders and Edmonton Eskimos are all undergoing renovations. The Saskatchewan Roughriders, Winnipeg Blue Bombers and Hamilton Tiger-Cats are all looking at projects that would replace their aging facilities. Add to that proposed plan to refurbish Frank Clair Stadium in Ottawa for the possible return of the CFL to Canada’s capital and the league is nearly undergoing a complete rebuild.

CFL commissioner Mark Cohon sees the interest in refurbishing, renovating or even building new stadiums as a sign of confidence in the league.

“There is a sense that this league is clearly on a huge upswing,” Cohon said Monday from Toronto. “Our attendance and our ratings are strong. People are gravitating to the Grey Cup in record numbers. It’s a testament to how the league is doing. There is a renewed faith in things that are Canadian and the CFL is surely part of that.”

A report was released Monday that concluded that it was feasible to build a multi-purpose entertainment venue in downtown Regina.

“There is a renaissance going around this league in regards to building stadiums,” Cohon said. “When I look at that happening, one of the things I think about is is it good for the community? Then can the CFL play a part of that? A lot of times, it’s great for the city and the province. There is real potential there.”

The proposed Regina complex would have 33,000 permanent seats. There is room to expand the facility to 45,000 for events like the Grey Cup or 53,000 for major concerts.

Cohon said the proposed facility would fit into the CFL’s guidelines as far as being suitable for a Grey Cup game.

“During the process we worked with the team that the concept fit into a Grey Cup,” said Cohon. “We’re very supportive of bringing a Grey Cup back to Regina.”

Source: Regina Leader-Post
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