The contentious issue of the grandstand at Emslie Field is back before council at Monday’s (Nov. 2) meeting.
Instead of demolishing the existing grandstand, which dates back to 1938, Cody Montgomery, Manager of Parks and Forestry, recommends minimal structural rehabilitation with Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) upgrades.
Last November, council received a report detailing the structural condition of the Emslie Grandstand and subsequently approved $600,000 within the 2026 Capital Budget toward addressing the future of the facility.
POW Peterman Consulting Engineers undertook the assessment, which determined “that the grandstand could not remain open without significant repairs due to structural deficiencies, deteriorated wood and steel components, roofing failure, and accessibility shortcomings.”
The consultant presented two rehabilitation options: a full rehabilitation estimated at $1.172 million and a minimum structural rehabilitation with AODA upgrades estimated at $785,950.
A third option involves demolition and replacement of the structure with a modern grandstand.
Montgomery’s report notes that Option 2: Minimum Structural Rehabilitation with AODA Upgrades “will address the immediate structural deficiencies and accessibility requirements identified within the grandstand while preserving the historic character and appearance of the facility.
“The proposed work includes rehabilitation of the existing structural steel and concrete, replacement of approximately 30 per cent of deficient wood roof joists, installation of a new metal roof over the existing deck, replacement of eavestroughs and downspouts, extension of the main aisleway to meet AODA requirements, construction of an accessible ramp and new stairway, installation of a new west parapet and railing, and additional safety improvements, while retaining the existing wood benches and brackets.”
The report continues, “Although the structural engineer estimates a service life of approximately 15 years following rehabilitation and notes the potential for accelerated deterioration due to the continued use of wood components and the omission of a waterproofing membrane, the option provides a practical and cost-effective solution that balances public safety, accessibility improvements, heritage preservation, and community expectations.”
St. Thomas Minor Baseball has committed $100,000 toward the rehabilitation, “contingent upon preservation of the existing structure,” and other community supporters have expressed interest in contributing financially to restoration efforts.
Demolition of the existing structure and construction of a new modern grandstand is estimated at $971,000, with a lifespan of about 40 to 50 years and reduced maintenance.
Montgomery concludes, “Demolition would alter the historic character of Emslie Field and could jeopardize donor contributions currently contingent upon preservation of the existing structure, potentially increasing the municipal funding requirement.
“For these reasons, staff recommend proceeding with Option 2 to address current safety and accessibility concerns while preserving a valued community asset and leveraging significant community investment.”
If council approves, the work would be completed next year.
Written by Ian McCallum
