Ontario Construction News staff writer
The Toronto Blue Jays released detailed plans for Phase 2 of the Rogers Centre renovations last week, part of a more than $300-million, multi-phase renovation project that started last year. Construction will resume at the end of this baseball season with the current 100-level seating bowl and structure being demolished.
New seats will be installed from foul pole to foul pole, aligned toward the infield for improved viewing specifically for baseball.
“Our goal from the onset of renovations was to transform Rogers Centre from a stadium to a ballpark,” said team president Mark Shapiro. “By completely rebuilding the 100 level seating bowl, we are introducing an authentic ballpark viewing experience, with sightlines designed specifically for fans to enjoy Blue Jays baseball.”
The new 100-level seats will have additional legroom, slats on the back that provide more airflow, wider seats between the dugouts, cupholders throughout, adaptable raisable armrest options, and handrails in every aisle.
Major renovations on the 34-year-old stadium in downtown Toronto began after the 2022 season. In Phase 1 seats in the 500 level were replaced, patios and gathering areas were added to the outfield.
“Our goal from the onset of renovations was to transform Rogers Centre from a stadium to a ballpark, and we are excited to build off the enthusiasm and popularity of the new Outfield District in this next phase of projects,” Blue Jays president Mark Shapiro said in a statement. “By completely rebuilding the 100-level seating bowl, we are introducing an authentic ballpark viewing experience, with sightlines designed specifically for fans to enjoy Blue Jays baseball.”
Home and visitor clubhouses and other player-focussed facilities will also be renovated and to accommodate the construction timetable, the Blue Jays will start next season with a 10-game road trip. Renovations are scheduled to be completed for the home opener on April 8, 2024.