City moves forward with plans for 60,000-square-foot sports dome expected to open in 2027
BRANTFORD, Ont. — The City of Brantford has taken a significant step toward expanding local recreation infrastructure after the Committee of the Whole unanimously endorsed plans for a new indoor turf sports facility that would provide year-round access to athletic programming and training space.
The proposed facility, slated for construction at Jaycee Sports Park on Dunsdon Street, is expected to open in the fall of 2027, pending final approval by Brantford City Council later this month. The project is designed to address growing demand for indoor sports space and support the long-term development of recreation and sport across the community.
The planned 60,000-square-foot air-supported dome will feature three artificial turf fields, change rooms and a concession area. City officials say the venue will accommodate a wide range of activities, including training sessions, leagues, tournaments, camps, clinics and community programming.
Investment aimed at meeting growing demand for indoor sports space
City leaders say the project responds directly to requests from residents and local sports organizations that have identified indoor training facilities as a priority for several years.
“This project is an investment in the future of sport and recreation in Brantford,” said Mayor Kevin Davis. “Residents and local sports organizations have consistently identified the need for year-round indoor training space. The indoor turf sports facility will provide opportunities for athletes of all ages and abilities to stay active, train locally, and compete year-round, while also attracting sport tourism opportunities that will benefit our community and local economy.”
According to the City, the proposal emerged from extensive public consultation and engagement with local sports organizations conducted over the past three years. The discussions formed part of the City’s Parks and Recreation Allocation Policy review and the Parks and Recreation Master Plan Addendum.
Local organizations, including the Brantford City Soccer Club and the Brantford Minor Baseball Association, highlighted the shortage of indoor turf facilities as a barrier to year-round athlete development and programming.
The new facility is expected to help address those concerns by offering dedicated indoor space regardless of weather conditions, reducing the need for athletes and teams to travel outside the city for training opportunities.
Local sports groups welcome the project
Community sports organizations have expressed strong support for the proposed facility, citing its potential to expand participation and improve athlete development opportunities.
“The new indoor turf sports facility will allow Brantford City Soccer to reintroduce indoor soccer programming for 700 additional participants and will make a world of difference to the young athletes across our community who dream of being professional athletes, says Rob Coleman, President of the Brantford City Soccer Club. “We thank the City of Brantford for its commitment to investing in recreation, sport and active living, and for supporting the future of soccer in our community.”
The City believes the facility will serve athletes of all ages and skill levels while also helping attract tournaments and sporting events that could generate additional economic activity for local businesses.
Officials note that sports tourism has become an increasingly important contributor to local economies across Ontario, with communities investing in modern facilities to host regional and provincial competitions.
Part of broader recreation infrastructure strategy
The indoor turf sports facility is one of several recreation-related projects currently underway or planned in Brantford.
City officials say the development complements recent investments in facilities and amenities, including the Wayne Gretzky Sports Centre, lawn bowling facilities, pickleball and tennis courts, the redevelopment of Woodman Park, and an expanding network of parks, trails and riverfront connections.
The project also aligns with larger initiatives currently in development, including the Blanche E. Williams Community Centre and the future Brantford Sports and Entertainment Centre.
Together, municipal leaders say these investments are intended to strengthen Brantford’s position as a regional destination for recreation, sport and active living while improving quality of life for residents.
The indoor turf sports facility proposal will next move to Brantford City Council for final consideration. Council is scheduled to vote on the project during its meeting on June 23, 2026. If approved, construction planning would proceed with the goal of opening the facility in fall 2027.