Ottawa Construction News staff writer
The City of Kingston is hosting a series of drop-in sessions this month to learn more about the proposed multi-sport stadium at the Kingston Memorial Centre and share their feedback.
The sessions will provide an opportunity to speak with city staff, ask questions about the proposal from Victory Grounds Ventures, and learn about the expected process. Information boards detailing the project review will also be available for comment.
Public sessions:
- 19 & 26 – Memorial Centre, 303 York St., 3–6 p.m.
- 16 – Memorial Centre Farmers Market, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
Victory Grounds Ventures is proposing a 4,000 to 6,000-seat soccer stadium at the Memorial Centre, with hopes of revitalizing the area while creating a new home for turf sports in the city.
“It’s already zoned for what we’re trying to do,” lead investor Paul Barbeau has told reporters. “The only difference is instead of a puck, we’re putting the ball in place. There were 3,000 people plus here for Frontenac games.”
The proposal has drawn mixed reactions from residents. Some expressed concerns about the loss of green space and the potential impact on current users of the Memorial Centre grounds.
Staff will address community concerns, explain the decision points still ahead, and gather input before presenting a report to council on March 18. An online survey is available until Feb. 28.
“Whether you’re excited about the idea, have concerns or ust want to learn more, city staff will be on hand to chat, break down the project review currently underway, outline what decision points are to come and hear your thoughts,” the city said in a media release.
On Jan. 14, city council directed staff to assess the feasibility of the Victory Grounds Ventures proposal. This process includes reviewing financial, technical, and community impact considerations, as well as engaging with user groups, local residents, and the broader community.
If the stadium proposal is deemed viable and receives support on Mar. 18, the next phase will involve detailed technical studies and further reviews by the Planning Committee and City Council before any development proceeds.
For more information, engagement updates, or to submit feedback, visit Get Involved Kingston.
