The City of Brandon hosted an official ground-breaking ceremony to mark the beginning of major construction for the Outdoor Field Sports Complex (OFSC), located at 1st Street & Veterans Way.
According to a media release today, the Outdoor Field Sports Complex will include:
– a FIFA-sized soccer field with lighting
– 11 x 11 soccer fields
– a dedicated 9 x 9 soccer field
– a cricket pitch
– a field house to include washrooms, change rooms, concession, and multi-use space
– a maintenance facility
The Government of Canada is contributing up to $3.9 million, and the Province of Manitoba is contributing up to $4.1 million toward eligible project costs. The City of Brandon is contributing up to $3.4 million toward the Outdoor Field Sports Complex.
“Today, we are putting shovels in the ground for the start of a project that will impact Brandon in a great way. By investing recreational infrastructure, our government is growing our country’s economy and improving the lives of Canadians in communities big and small,” said Dan Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs and Minister responsible for PrairiesCan and CanNor, on behalf of the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities.
Premier Heather Stefanson said, “Our government is proud to collaborate on projects that will improve the quality of life for Manitobans and support the continued growth of our communities and economy. This world-class facility will be a welcome attraction and economic driver for the City of Brandon and the Westman region, and will provide our youth and sport enthusiasts with the opportunity to pursue their athletic dreams.”
“We are excited to partner with all three levels of government to see the Outdoor Sports Field Complex come to life in Brandon. As Brandon is a regional hub for western Manitoba, this state-of-the-art facility will be a great investment for our city and beyond,” said Jeff Fawcett, Mayor of the City of Brandon.
(Image – Premier Heather Stefanson – Mayor Jeff Fawcett)
Phase 1 of the project kicked off in January 2023 and rough grading of the site is underway. Phase 1 will also see the installation of a watermain, low pressure sewer, and land drainage, including a stormwater retention pond and flood control dike.
Design for Phase 2 has been ongoing simultaneously, with the tender anticipated to be released by July 2023, said the release. The complex is anticipated to be completed in 2025.
