Ontario Construction News staff writer
Brantford city council has approved the design and construction of a new $152-million Sports and Entertainment Centre and finalized a long-term lease agreement with the Brantford Bulldogs, moves city officials say will anchor downtown revitalization efforts for decades.
The city and the Ontario Hockey League team have formally signed a 15-year lease with five renewal options, extending up to 40 years, securing the Bulldogs’ long-term presence in Brantford and establishing the new facility as the team’s permanent home.
Stantec and Graham Construction have been selected to deliver the project using a progressive design-build model.
The state-of-the-art Sports and Entertainment Centre will seat 5,235 spectators and is designed to host OHL hockey, concerts, family shows, community celebrations, trade shows and a wide range of major events. Located on Market Street, the venue will feature a new civic plaza linking it to the existing Civic Centre, positioning the facility as a focal point for public gatherings and a central element in the ongoing renewal of the downtown core.
An independent economic analysis commissioned by the city projects significant economic benefits during both construction and operations. Construction activity is expected to generate approximately $261 million in economic impact, create 1,260 full-time jobs, contribute about $90 million in employment income and produce nearly $25 million in federal and provincial tax revenues.
Once operational, the facility is projected to generate about $13.2 million in local spending annually, support 95 full-time equivalent jobs and contribute $7.6 million to the local economy each year. Over a 10-year period, the combined impact of operations is expected to exceed $145 million in spending and more than $83 million in economic contributions.
The project will be funded through dedicated revenue sources tied to the facility, including a $140-million municipal debenture supported by a reserve fund. The reserve will draw on revenues from the municipal accommodation tax, casino revenue reallocation, property sales, naming rights, sponsorships, operator contributions, fundraising and increased commercial property taxes associated with downtown development.
“This is a defining moment for Brantford,” Mayor Kevin Davis said, adding that council’s approval of the project and the long-term lease secures a partnership that will strengthen the community and support downtown renewal.
Brantford Bulldogs general manager Spencer Hyman said the agreement confirms Brantford as the team’s permanent home.
Construction of the Sports and Entertainment Centre is expected to begin in early 2026, with completion targeted for early 2028. The city said it will launch a comprehensive fundraising and sponsorship campaign as the project advances and will continue to refine design details with input from stakeholders and the community.
